Workplace Wizard, Culture Crusader, Leadership Luminary, Training Trailblazer – these are just a few ways Heather Polivka would be described by people who enjoy alliteration.   Heather is the Founder and CEO of Awesome People Leaders (APL), and as the Chief Architect of Awesome, she's the spark behind creating workplaces that buzz with energy and innovation. With over two decades of transforming company cultures, she has helped create countless working environments in which people don't just work—they flourish.

 

Valued by her clients as a trusted advisor and change agent, Heather's accolades include being honored as NAWBO Top 10 Women Business Owner of the Year and inducted into the 2023 class of 100 Women to KNOW. Her expertise was further sharpened as a scholar in the 2023 Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program, adding an elite edge to her already awesome skill set.

 

Heather's methodology? It's not rocket science; it's better. It's a fusion of deep theoretical expertise delivered in simple and actionable strategies that enable awesome cultures, awesome leaders, and well, just being awesome. Before APL, she led a cross-functional team in a Fortune 6 company resulting in a culture transformation enabling an effective integration of over 20 acquired businesses, transformed their employer brand in the talent market, and drove 400% growth.

 

Beyond the boardroom, Heather is passionate about helping other women entrepreneurs find their awesome, serving as a SCORE mentor and Co-Chair of the Catalyst Fund to empower early-stage women business owners. She also is active in social advocacy for child abuse prevention and anti-racism causes.

 

So what's Heather’s secret? A blend of cross-functional savvy, a keen eye on business strategy through people development, and an uncanny ability to turn grand visions into bite-sized, actionable realities. All of this is coupled with her engaging style, deep empathy, and a deep sense of joy and wonder.  Heather Polivka isn't just about what's possible; she's about making it happen, with a healthy dose of awesomeness.