Denise Merritt, the CEO of Merritt Business Solutions, brings over 30 years of experience in the HR and benefits industry, with a profound understanding of the complexities businesses face in managing their human capital. Her career began in the dynamic world of Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs), where she spent 12 years honing her HR and customer service skills. This foundational experience laid the groundwork for her transition into a Business Consultant role, where she further sharpened her ability to understand and address client needs.
Driven by a desire for new challenges, Denise joined Aflac as a District Sales Coordinator, where she led a team of 20 agents and successfully secured major clients, including Orlando Health. This diverse experience has equipped her with a unique perspective on HR and benefits management, allowing her to develop innovative strategies, optimize benefits packages, and ensure compliance with employment regulations.
Denise’s extensive background and proven track record are complemented by her deep passion for helping organizations navigate the HR landscape. She is dedicated to enhancing employee satisfaction and helping businesses achieve their goals, making her an invaluable partner in the complex world of human capital management.
Below are highlights of the interview:
Tell us about Merritt Business Solutions.
Merritt Business Solutions is more than just a service provider; we are your strategic HR and benefits management partner. We specialize in simplifying complex HR challenges, so you can focus on growing your business, knowing that we are by your side.
As a certified women-owned business and a certified LGBTQ business enterprise we have made it our mission is to help minority businesses achieve economic equality and we have a secondary mission to do the right thing always. We are not perfect in that, but we try hard.
Our services encompass various solutions, including fractional HR services, benefits administration, and compliance guidance. We’ll work closely with you to develop tailored strategies aligning with your needs. Whether it’s crafting effective HR policies, managing employee benefits, or navigating regulatory waters, we’ve got you covered. We also offer Pharmacy Benefit Manager services that help corporations save on the increasing cost of prescription benefits.
By leveraging our expertise, we help companies optimize their HR operations, enhance employee satisfaction, and mitigate risks.
How would you describe your leadership style? What are the key principles or values that guide your leadership approach?
My leadership style is a blend of strategic vision, hands-on management, and a deep commitment to fostering team collaboration. I believe that every team member’s contribution is valuable and strive to create an environment where everyone feels included and valued.
As a strategic visionary, I’m always looking ahead to anticipate industry trends and align our services with evolving market demands. This forward-thinking approach and my experience allow me to set clear, future-oriented goals and guide my team toward achieving them.
I also firmly believe in teamwork and actively involve my team in the decision-making process. And we are not afraid to take a risk. We will try things and if they don’t work out that is okay, it was a lesson learned. I foster open communication and collaboration, ensuring everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute their best.
Client satisfaction is paramount to me. I prioritize understanding each client’s unique challenges and goals, ensuring we deliver tailored solutions that drive their success.
Mentorship and development are essential to building a solid team. I’m committed to helping my team members grow professionally by providing guidance and opportunities for advancement.
Finally, I’m action and results oriented. I set high standards and drive performance by hopefully implementing effective strategies. We hold weekly accountability meetings to see where people are and where they might need help.
This combination of strategic thinking, collaboration, client focus, mentorship, and results orientation create a dynamic and supportive work environment that positions Merritt Business Solutions for continued success and growth.
What strategies do you employ to ensure effective communication and collaboration within your organization?
I foster open communication and collaboration through several key strategies, including the 12-week year approach. This method breaks down annual goals into shorter, more manageable chunks, keeping everyone focused and agile.
Regular team meetings, an open-door policy, and collaborative tools like our intranet encourage open dialogue and information sharing. I also prioritize team building to foster a strong, cohesive unit. By setting clear goals for each 12-week cycle, I ensure everyone understands their role and how their work contributes to the bigger picture.
We also offer a 30-minute meeting for mediation that is voluntary once a week. I think having employees slow down to reset is vital to help them bring their best selves forward.
This combination of strategies creates a dynamic and collaborative environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.
How do you motivate and inspire your team members to achieve their best performance?
I motivate and inspire my team by:
- Prioritizing family: A solid work-life balance is essential. By demonstrating our commitment to family, we create a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
- Setting clear goals: I use the 12-week year approach to break down big goals into smaller, achievable steps. Keeping everyone focused and motivated.
- Leading by example: I strive to embody the values and work ethic I expect from my team. I believe in showing, not just telling.
- Providing feedback: I offer honest, constructive feedback to help my team grow. I also celebrate successes to boost morale.
- Investing in growth: I support my team’s professional development to help them reach their full potential.
- Fostering collaboration: I create a supportive environment where everyone’s ideas are valued. Teamwork is critical to our success.
- Recognizing achievements: Celebrating big or small wins keeps the team motivated and engaged.
- Empowering my team: I trust them to make decisions and take ownership of their work.
- Inspiring a shared vision: I clearly communicate our company’s mission and goals, so everyone understands how their work contributes to the bigger picture.
Combining these strategies creates a positive and productive work environment where everyone is motivated to excel.
As an executive, how do you maintain a healthy work-life balance? What practices or activities do you engage in outside of work to recharge and rejuvenate?
I prioritize work-life balance by setting clear boundaries between work and personal time. Self-care is essential, so I make time for exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep. Hobbies like reading, traveling, or attending the theater help me recharge as well as the occasional massage. Spending quality time with loved ones is crucial for my well-being. So, making sure I have quality time and date nights with my wife are important and seeing my children and grandchildren regularly is a priority. Also getting out and connecting with friends helps give me the support and encouragement I need, which I try to give back to them as well. Planning vacations and time off is essential for returning to work refreshed. Lastly, giving back to the community recharges me, I am the current chair of the board for the local Pride Chamber of Orlando and seeing it flourish fills me with joy. This balanced approach keeps me energized and happy in all areas of my life.
What advice would you give to aspiring leaders who are looking to make a significant impact in their respective industries?
To aspiring leaders, I say:
Build strong relationships, find your passion, and lead with heart. Empower your team, stay adaptable, and always lead with integrity.
- Build Strong Connections: Network, collaborate and give back to your community.
- Find Your Purpose: Define a clear mission and vision that excites you.
- Lead with Passion: Let your emotions fuel your drive and determination.
- Empower Your Team: Build trust, support growth, and celebrate successes.
- Stay Adaptable: Learn from challenges and keep moving forward.
- Lead With Integrity: Be true to your values and inspire others.
Remember, as you embark on your leadership journey, your goal is to inspire others and create lasting change. This is the mark of a great leader.
To know more, please visit: https://www.merrittbusiness.solutions/
