Maria Force Ms, Sphr, Scp

Maria Force has a diverse work experience in human resources, leadership, and mediation/arbitration. Maria is currently working as the Vice President of Human Resources for Ocean Power Technologies, where they lead the transformation of the organization and focuses on various HR disciplines. Prior to this, Maria held the position of Chief Human Resources Officer, VP, Director, and Senior HR Leader in a company that was in transition. Maria has also served as the Director of Human Resources at Drew University, overseeing the administration of HR programs and policies. Maria has previous experience as a Human Resources Director at Roseland, a Mack-Cali Company, and as the Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Gallagher Bollinger. Earlier in their career, they were the Director of Employee & Labor Relations at Federated Department Stores and the Director of Human Resources at Warnock Automotive Group. Maria also established a private practice in mediation and arbitration, focusing on business disputes and divorce proceedings. Overall, they bring extensive expertise in HR strategy, talent management, leadership development, and conflict resolution.

Maria Force holds a Master of Science (MS) degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Stevens Institute of Technology. Prior to that, they completed their Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Psychology and Sociology from Drew University. In terms of certifications, Maria obtained the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) designation from HRCI in March 2022. Maria also holds a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace Certificate from USF Corporate Training and Professional Education, which they obtained in May 2021. Additionally, Maria is a SHRM - Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certified by SHRM, and they achieved this certification in May 2021.