Alena Balzer
HR Professional
Summary
HR professional with a proven track record in creating and harmonizing processes across key people functions, including HR, mobility and immigration, compensation, and payroll. Passionate about working with both numbers and people, with demonstrated expertise in workforce optimization, problem-solving, and effective communication. Known for adopting a collaborative leadership style, mentoring teams, and aligning operations with the firm’s best interests.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
4
4
Certifications
3
3
Languages
Work History
Manager of HR, CE Payroll and HR Process
McKinsey & Company
01.2024 - Current
- Overseeing the Payroll and MIE agenda for Central Europe offices (supporting approximately 3,000 colleagues)
- Leading the harmonization, automation, and digitalization of Payroll and MIE processes across Central Europe to maximize efficiency and prepare for the Global Payroll transformation.
- Driving the harmonization of HR processes across Central Europe (offboarding process, PC data entry, etc.) and business continuity plans.
- Co-leading the European MM initiative.
Manager of HR / Manager of HR in CE Excl. Poland
McKinsey & Company
09.2020 - 12.2023
- Overseeing the HR agenda for the Czech Republic, later also for Hungary, Romania, and Croatia.
- Leading the development, harmonization, automation, and digitalization of HR processes across Central Europe to maximize efficiency and ensure data integrity.
- Managing the harmonization and implementation of compensation and benefits processes in the Czech Republic.
- Developing new HR procedures and local policies while ensuring compliance with national legal regulations, EU directives, and the firm's global policies.
- Leading a team of HR colleagues in CE excluding Poland.
- Mentoring, coaching, and sponsoring junior colleagues.
HR Business Partner, Comp&Ben
RENOMIA, a.s.
02.2020 - 08.2020
- Creating and implementing new way of working and managing people during pandemic situation.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop integrated solutions for business challenges.
HR Professional
McKinsey & Company
12.2007 - 12.2019
- Managing the full hire-to-retire HR and payroll agenda, including immigration and benefits, for 220–330 employees.
- Providing support to partners, managers, and employees on all employment-related matters.
- Overseeing performance evaluation processes.
- Designing and managing training plans for support staff.
Education
Ing. (Master’s Degree in Economics) -
Prague University of Economics And Business
Prague, Czech Republic 04.2001 -
Skills
Project and Change Management
Problem-Solving Expertise
Workforce Improvement Expertise
Effective Communication Skills
Risk Management Expertise
Commitment to Compliance and the Best Interests of the Firm
Strong Teamwork Skills
Advanced Microsoft Office Skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
Certification
Requalification course in payroll accounting, 120 hours, culminating in a state examination
Timeline
Manager of HR, CE Payroll and HR Process
McKinsey & Company
01.2024 - Current
Manager of HR / Manager of HR in CE Excl. Poland
McKinsey & Company
09.2020 - 12.2023
HR Business Partner, Comp&Ben
RENOMIA, a.s.
02.2020 - 08.2020
HR Professional
McKinsey & Company
12.2007 - 12.2019
Ing. (Master’s Degree in Economics) -
Prague University of Economics And Business
04.2001 -
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