The COVID pandemic and Heywood Healthcare’s financial restructuring in Chapter 11 bankruptcy created quite the challenge for its 1,700+ employees, but Kaleigh Maio has guided the North Central Massachusetts’ health system through the turbulent waters.
Since beginning as an HR generalist in 2014, she advanced to vice president of human resources within a decade. Employee satisfaction scores increased by 6.4% in 2024, with survey participation rising by 7%. She spearheaded implementation of a new applicant tracking system and led the overhaul of the recruitment process through targeted approaches. Her strategic workforce planning achieved a 17% reduction in full-time equivalents while maintaining operational effectiveness.
She has fostered a culture of support through programs like Giving Tree, Employee Clothes Closet, and an employee concierge service providing priority access to healthcare services like mammograms, ultrasounds, MRIs, and specialists. She is pursuing a doctorate in philosophy in human resource management from Northcentral University, and she provides philanthropic support of animal shelters and local food pantries while raising three children.
Would you choose to be the oldest, middle, or youngest sibling, or an only child? I would choose to be an only child.
Best restaurant in Central Mass.? Gardner Ale House
Who helped you in your professional journey? My husband, Ben Maio, has helped me by being a steady support system and my go-to person for just about everything.
