The finalists for WashingtonExec’s Pinnacle Awards were announced Oct. 11, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person Nov. 30.
Next is HR Executive of the Year (Private Company) finalist John Reing, who’s chief human resources officer at Peraton. Here, he talks key achievements, career turning points, proud career moments and more.
What key achievements did you have in 2021/2022?
When I joined Peraton in July 2021, the mission was very clear: to drive an accelerated integration of three heritage organizations so the company could start FY22 in a unified One Peraton environment. As daunting as this challenge sounds, I had the good fortune of joining a very talented HR team and worked alongside some great partners that enabled us to do what others may have considered impossible.
We harmonized the benefits platform in time for FY22 open enrollment, integrated internal HR systems, harmonized our job architecture and compensation programs, delivered a new and compelling employee value proposition, and relied on our shared values to pave the way to our now high-performing, mission-focused culture. I couldn’t have asked for a better team to join me in this undertaking.
What was a turning point or inflection point in your career?
There are three distinct “North Star” moments that shaped my career progression. The first was when I made the difficult decision to relocate from my hometown of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Washington, D.C., for a significant promotion. With that leap, I learned to be willing to take chances and make bold moves that will challenge you and make you feel uncomfortable. Rather than get complacent, I elected to take the risk knowing I would have to prove myself and hope for the best.
The second was when I decided that, in order to be a better consultant, I needed to gain internal HR experience, so I made a lateral move to the A&D industry where I found some terrific mentors. In this role, I learned that one should be willing to step sideways to gain needed experiences and professional development. When I did this, I found myself on a faster track toward my career goals.
The third North Star moment was when I was presented with the opportunity to follow a former boss and become CHRO of SRA International. The role turned out to be a complete immersion in business and culture transformation under private equity ownership that has continued to influence the leader I am today.
At the time, I was considering the decision to make this move when the CEO Bill Ballhaus called me while I was on a bus headed to New York for my son’s eighth-grade trip. I answered the call and Bill opened with the question, “So, when is your start date?” It was the nudge I needed.
Looking back at your career, what are you most proud of?
The validation from people around me that I have made a difference as a leader, colleague, mentor and employee. I thrive on making an impact on the business, my clients, my company and especially my HR colleagues. Throughout my career, I have worked for two CEOs, twice, and in two different companies. Another employer welcomed me back after a 15-year gap. Seven of my former HR team members have gone on to achieve their goal of being CHRO and I’ve had the privilege of working with the most talented HR team members a CHRO could want.
What’s the best career advice for those that want to follow in your footsteps?
Seek out great mentors, be curious and build life-long relationships. Practice a sound state of mind. Don’t get too high or too low. Our best decisions are not ones made in an emotional state. One of my early mentors counseled me, “Don’t get mad, don’t get even, get what you want.” Focus on the outcome, not the path you took to get there.