Costa is an experienced Human Resources Executive, she has led and served with multiple corporations in a variety of service-driven industries, including Hospitality, Healthcare, Education, Health & Wellness and Retail. Costa currently serves as the Vice President of Human Resources for Regency, a leading national provider of pet aftercare services. Throughout her career, she has provided talent management leadership and support as a trusted business partner focused on growing and scaling businesses through people and culture.
Costa’s passion for servant leadership and purpose in helping others realize their full potential are the focus of her approach in accelerating talent. She’s a true thought-leader and influencer as demonstrated by her community giving, including serving as a LinkedIn Local host in South Florida, and highlighting the achievements and lessons of Women in Leadership through international interviews, podcasts, and documentaries. In her words, “I believe in people, maximizing talent contributions, and the power of full engagement. At Regency, we’re intentional with our approach as we grow through people and realize our purpose in serving families who need us.”
Favorite Quote: “Dreams don’t work unless you do” — John Maxwell
Fun Fact: Evelyn is multilingual, speaks 3 languages fluently (Portuguese, Spanish & English) and is learning Italian
How do you unwind after a long day of work? Spending time with family over dinner, reading a great book followed by meditation and prayer.
What has been the most monumental moment of your career thus far? For me it’s always been about how I’ve impacted people and organizations. If I’m living in that impact zone, that’s monumental for me.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever gotten? When I first became a leader my Supervisor told me that Leadership was all about others and not about me anymore. Understanding that leadership is influence and that everything you do should be thinking about the impact on others, made a significant effect in my career.
What qualities make for an outstanding HR professional? Every outstanding professional should have a core foundation in the many functions of Human Resources, as well as great communication skills both verbal and written, time management and self discipline and a servant leadership mindset to train, develop, and mentor the people they serve.
How have you adapted your HR skills to COVID? Pivoting to a virtual world has been a significant change but a tremendous way to stay in contact with our employees throughout the pandemic.
What are some misconceptions about HR and how do you combat them? Some misconception that we are currently facing in the HR world are related to seeing HR as the department that merely listens to employee complaints or that solely exist to protect the company. Showing employees that we care about their well being and that they are the most valuable asset in the organization has helped to overcome these misconceptions overtime.
What do you like most about working in HR? The opportunity to serve others and carry the message that Human Resources leaders is the department that supports the needs of the employees in the organization is what excites me to wake up everyday to go to work.
