Newsroom
Wallen brings more than 20 years' experience as an organizational development practitioner to the role
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — Nonprofit research institute RTI International has named Valerie “Val” Wallen vice president, culture and experience, in RTI’s Office of Human Resources (HR). In this role, Wallen will lead and integrate the culture and experience division within HR, deliver on strategic priorities and objectives in support of the institute’s people strategy, and serve as a trusted culture and organizational development strategist and partner for leaders across the institute.
A new division within HR, culture and experience will comprise three core areas: equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging (EDIB); organizational development and change management; and employee experience and listening. This position will report to Bucky Fairfax, chief human resources officer and executive vice president, global real estate and global security.
“This is an exciting time for the institute as we advance our commitment to empower people and enhance culture,” said Fairfax. “To this new role, Val brings a unique background in organizational and leadership development, work culture and experience, change leadership, and more, which together will contribute to advancing work culture and experience for all RTI employees.”
Wallen joined RTI in 2013 and brings more than 20 years' experience as an organizational development practitioner to the role. Over the past seven years, she was the human resources business partner lead for the Social, Statistical and Environmental Sciences unit, where she served as a strategic advisor, business partner and talent strategist.
During her time with the institute, Wallen has also led strategic, cross-RTI initiatives including forming, designing and facilitating programs and initiatives for professional and leadership development, change management, performance review and EDIB engagement.
“I envision an organizational environment where individuals’ unique contributions are highly valued and nurtured,” said Wallen. “The culture and experience team will work together toward a workplace where the potential of RTI’s people is further realized, and our collective strengths contribute to our success, growth and impact. I look forward to enhancing existing partnerships and building new relationships as we strive to make RTI an even better place to work.”
Prior to joining RTI, Wallen was director of talent management and organizational effectiveness at the University of Richmond. She earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Baylor University and her master’s degree in organizational development from Fielding Graduate University.
