Melissa Marousek
Chief People Officer, Serco
Melissa Marousek’s biggest recent achievement was successfully supporting the acquisition and integration of approximately 1,000 employees into Serco, ensuring a seamless cultural and operational transition. This accomplishment was complemented by a full-scale HR restructure designed to enable future divisional growth and scalability in alignment with the company’s strategic objectives. Most recently, she played a key role in transition planning and executive support for the company’s new CEO, helping set the tone for a new chapter of leadership.
Serco is aligning with federal priorities by embedding performance-based pay practices, refining job architecture and implementing AI-driven tools like Serco GAiT and other talent AI capabilities to streamline recruiting and resume analysis. Its HR operating model emphasizes operational excellence, risk mitigation and strategic development. Through these efforts, the company is driving cost reductions and operational efficiencies across its portfolio of government contracts.
“Melissa’s leadership as Chief People Officer has been instrumental in my transition into Serco,” said Michael LaRouche, Serco North America CEO. “Her strategic insight, unwavering support, and deep understanding of our people and culture have not only accelerated my onboarding but also laid the foundation for a strong and collaborative CEO–CPO partnership. Her ability to connect vision with execution is exactly what Serco needs as we shape our future together.”
Why Watch
In 2025, her team is focused on refining how the company works and aligning more effectively with its strategic priorities of growth and scalability. The goal is to drive cost efficiencies while continuing to deliver exceptional support to the business. By leveraging tools, resources and emerging AI technologies, Serco is building a more agile HR function and a workforce equipped with the skills needed for future success.
“We’re not just adapting to change—we’re architecting it,” she said. “By investing in our people, embracing AI, and simplifying how we work, we’re building an HR function that’s future-ready and human-centered.”
Fun Fact: Marousek actively seeks out challenges that push her beyond her comfort zone. For example, she once feared swimming in deep open water so she earned her scuba diving certification. What once filled her with fear now inspires awe as she explores the world beneath the surface.