I first met Maggie Johnson in 2005 when I hired her to head human resources at a prior bank in which I worked. We were $900 million in size and needed a strong human resource professional to oversee the company’s most valuable asset, our 250 member staff. She filled that role displaying extreme professionalism drawing upon her prior experience and legal education.
Recently, while in the process of starting a new bank, reaching out to Maggie, for assistance in all things human resource related, was a very easy choice. In starting our new bank, Maggie has been invaluable in a multiple of ways regarding our human resource efforts.
Through various social media platforms, Maggie attracted well over 300 resumes for review, to fill critical positions within our bank. She reviewed each resume and established a rating system, based on my criteria, as to whether or not the candidate would advance into an interview situation. It is not an exaggeration to estimate the she personally interviewed over 75 individuals to “prequalify” them for advancing further in the process.
The time she saved me was invaluable. Through these efforts we were able to identify and hire our Chief Financial Officer and Chief Lending Officer, among others, thereby saving our company well over six figures in recruiting fees. Her overall knowledge, and experience, in Human Resources management came into full display when she took the lead in developing the bank’s benefit plans and 401K plan while simultaneously helping to author the company’s employee manual.
We would not be where we are today without the tremendous contribution by Maggie. Maggie is a joy to work with and the consummate professional.
C. Mark Campbell
Chairman, President & CEO
Five Rivers Bank (in organization)
I have had the pleasure of working with Maggie at New Jersey Urology for several years. NJU is a large 1000+ employee, multi-site healthcare provider group with a complex mix of employees ranging from hourly to surgeons. She is an accomplished executive with expertise in managing human capital, recruiting creating a healthy workforce, legal, conflict resolution and organization efficiency.
She has superb crisis management skills and a soothing approach to managing employee escalations. At NJU she led the charge to create a positive work environment through engaging key influencers. She helped to build a scalable HR infrastructure including policies, procedures, tools and risk management while simultaneously working to improve employee engagement. She took point during COVID to put in place new policies and tools critical for shifting to remote work. Her collaborative style engages key stakeholders to ensure consensus but when required she will be the final decision maker. She does not shy away from work and will always give 100%. She will utilize her vast experience to ensure that all aspects of critical decisions are considered.
She is results oriented, extremely positive, highly professional and overall a beneficial addition to any organization. She was invaluable to the team from day one.
It was an absolute pleasure to work with Maggie and I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for an A player.”
Scott Ciccarelli
Former CEO
New Jersey Urology
Many experienced professionals believe they have what it takes to navigate the next chapter of their careers-and often, they do. But the real question is: how effectively? I was no exception. Confident in my skills and trajectory, I assumed I could handle the pivot alone-until I met Maggie. She came highly recommended by her former colleague who credited her with helping them troubleshoot a complex career transition.
After an unexpected job loss, I turned to Maggie myself once again-the same exceptional coach who had previously helped me land a pivotal role. She stepped in without hesitation, offering the same clarity, strategic rigor, and unwavering support. It was, without question, one of the best investments I’ve ever made! This wasn’t just job search coaching-it was career transformation. Maggie helped me recalibrate my strategy, guiding me to target roles that aligned with my strengths, values, and long-term goals. Her insight into organizational dynamics, her intuitive grasp of what employers really look for, and her mastery of interview preparation made all the difference. Together, we developed a game plan that included mapping spheres of influence around targeted roles, anticipating barriers, and highlighting mission-critical competencies. Within weeks, I was interviewing for roles that were more aligned and senior than those I had held before-frequently reaching final rounds.
What makes Maggie extraordinary is her rare blend of empathy, industry expertise, and strategic clarity. She navigates complex legal and regulatory landscapes with confidence and helps her clients negotiate with precision and skill. After years of aspiring to work at the United Nations, it was through Maggie’s rigorous and ongoing coaching that I finally made that vision a reality. She’s not just a coach-she’s a compass, a catalyst, and a consummate professional. I recommend her with wholehearted gratitude and unreserved respect.
Ilona Gedutiene
Government Grant Officer
Over the last several years, I’ve had the pleasure to work on more than one occasion with Maggie Johnson. Maggie is incredibly knowledgeable about her field and is an accomplished HR professional. In particular, her knowledge of employment law has always impressed me; in working with her in my role as general counsel, we would consult regularly on best practices in the field, and she was well-versed in the relevant issues.
She was also more than capable of leading any issues related to the management of staff, training for supervisors and payroll matters. Patient, calm, and a good listener, Maggie was as talented a team manager as she was a colleague in her role of Chief Human Resources Officer. She always made time to listen and offer solutions to resolve any crisis that may have arisen, often adding appropriately timed humor to lighten a tense situation.
I would, without reservation, recommend Maggie to any client needing assistance in the area of human resources as I would be at ease knowing that they would be in good hands.
Debra Shannon
General Counsel
I have had the pleasure of working with Maggie on many different projects over the years. I would highly recommend that you hire Maggie as your executive coach or human resources consultant.
Maggie is results oriented, experienced, energetic and highly professional. She is a change facilitator, a natural leader, hard-working, reliable, always pays attention to every aspect and detail of human resources. Her legal background helps make her an expert on complex compliance issues.
William Spigonardo
Principal
Epic Brokers
I had the pleasure of working with Maggie and can’t recommend her enough. Her insightful guidance and personable approach were instrumental in my professional growth. As an authentic, personable and results-driven expert in executive coaching, Maggie brings a unique blend of experience and thoroughness, making every session incredibly valuable.
If you’re seeking a coach who not only understands your professional goals but also cares about your personal development, Maggie is the ideal choice.
Elijah El Hadj Danfa
Managing Director
I’ve known Maggie for several years and have found her to be an outstanding HR executive combined with both a sharp legal and business skill set. She has contributed tremendous value to every organization she has worked for from start-ups to small, mid-size and large companies.
I’m very excited for Maggie’s next chapter as an independent consultant and advisor and I am confident that every client will gain significantly from her unique talents.
Sandy Srebnick
COO
