Driving Company Culture and Producing United's Workforce

Joan Cavanaugh

Chief Human Resources Officer

Joan Cavanaugh is a twenty-six year veteran of human resource management. Twelve of those years have been as the leader of United Group’s Human Resources Division for over 300 employees. Joan’s expertise includes managing recruitment, talent acquisition, employee relations, leadership and employee development, succession planning, organizational effectiveness, change management, compensation and benefits administration. Joan plays a valuable role effectively integrating business strategy and planning, and translating business plans into operational Human Resource programming. Additionally, she provides oversight of Corporate Administration including corporate office operations. Under Joan’s direction the company has enriched benefit offerings to employees from traditional to pioneering over the last decade. Joan launched the company’s first Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and the first dedicated Wellness Program In Good Health for United’s employees. Joan has been responsible for implementing a dynamic and sustainable HR environment to ensure readiness for growth of the organization through sound management and the implementation of on-line, web based tools and applications. The On Boarding program for newly hired employees, as well as the creation of a Performance Management Process that ensures employees are focused on core competencies and desired behavioral expectations, has created emerging entrepreneurial spirited employees who can visualize their success within the organization. Joan has also implemented training programs, and partnered with industry professionals, to provide continuous support and growth to United’s employees. As a senior member of a Task Force especially designed to bring new construction and newly acquired product on line, Joan managed the pre and post opening activities for new luxury properties for Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide and has provided HR leadership and support for 15 of United Group’s newly developed residential and commercial properties throughout her tenure. Joan’s earlier career experience includes serving in leadership roles in both the hospitality and higher education sectors. She has served as adjunct faculty teaching human resource management. She understands the importance of continually building the skills and knowledge required to be effective in a changing world of work. Joan holds an Associate’s Degree in Arts & Sciences, General Business from Russell-Sage Junior College of Albany, and State Teaching Certification, State Board of Directors for Community Colleges of Arizona.

Michaela DiGiacomo

Director of HR

As United Group’s Director of Human Resources, Michaela DiGiacomo is responsible for managing the overall Human Resources function and daily operations for the company, thus creating a positive and rewarding experience for all employees. Michaela works on the design, planning, and implementation of HR related programs and policies that directly affect United’s employees. Additionally, Michaela leads functions specifically relating to recruitment and staffing, performance management, on-boarding, and training and development. Michaela began working at United Group in 2010 and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Communication with a minor in Sociology from the State University of New York College at Brockport, and holds her SHRM-CP credentials; a Certified Human Resources Professional through the Society of Human Resource Management.

Bekah Hebert

Compensation + Benefits Manager

Ryan Newhouse

Office Manager