How teams are making recognition more meaningful

As Chief People & Experience Officer for Simpplr, Miriam gets to work on their belief that when work is good, life is better. Simpplr, a leader in modern intranet software, is fueled by a mission to transform the work experience for billions of people around the world. Miriam gets to apply her three decades of experience in HR consulting, to shape and deliver a great employee experience at Simpplr, through forward-thinking HR and the application of Simpplr’s AI-powered technology.

Miriam also helps innovate Simpplr’s solution for the HR user, leveraging her years of consulting experience supporting organizations to transform their HR service delivery, and adapt to the ever-changing world of work. Miriam has worked across a range of industries, from start-ups to Fortune 100 organizations.

Miriam was previously a partner in EY’s People Advisory practice, and a Senior Leader at Willis Towers Watson. Miriam has a MBA, with an emphasis on Organizational Behavior and HR Strategy, a MSc in Applied Geophysics, and a BSc in Physics and Geology.

Patrick Holmes is the Senior Director of Marketing and Communications for Veteran Benefits Guide.

In this role, Patrick oversees marketing, employee communications, public and media relations and VBG’s strategic communication initiatives to enhance its reputation and brand.

Prior to joining VBG, Patrick served as the executive director of communications and marketing at the University of California, Berkeley. At Berkeley, Patrick led the effort to evolve and protect the university’s brand, managed comprehensive internal communications strategies, and oversaw digital and social media initiatives.

Before Berkeley, Patrick worked at Oregon Health &Science University for over 10 years, including five years directing internal communications. OHSU is Oregon’s only academic health center and the largest employer in Portland.

Patrick earned a bachelor’s degree in social science at Portland State University, with an emphasis in communications.

Outside of VBG, Patrick enjoys traveling, snowboarding and live music.

Jennifer Norris is a People Innovation & Experience Manager at Georgia United Credit Union, where she focuses on designing people‑centered systems, learning strategies, and internal communications that elevate team member experience and engagement. A trusted HR leader and culture champion, Jennifer partners with leaders to translate employee feedback into scalable solutions that strengthen connection, clarity, and performance across the organization. She is passionate about creating environments where employees feel supported, informed, and empowered to do their best work.

Kayla Hansen is the Culture & Engagement Team Lead at Medical Solutions Group (MSG), where she has been a dedicated team member for 14 years. Throughout her tenure, she has contributed to the organization in a variety of capacities, bringing a broad understanding of MSG’s people, culture, and business operations to her current role.

Today, Kayla leads enterprise-wide recognition and appreciation efforts focused on ensuring teammates feel valued and supported. She partners cross-functionally to align recognition strategies with broader organizational goals, strengthening relationships, enhancing retention, and driving engagement across the company. Kayla is passionate about building intentional recognition programs that reinforce connection and contribute to long-term organizational success.

Outside of work, she is an avid sports fan and proud mom who can often be found cheering from the sidelines at her kids’ sporting events, embracing the same spirit of teamwork, encouragement, and celebration that shapes her leadership approach.