Risa Avena
About Risa Avena
Risa Avena serves as the Benefits & HRIS Manager at Thesis in Portland, Oregon, where she has worked since 2022. With a diverse background in human resources and benefits management, she advocates for employee well-being and workplace alignment with organizational values.
Work at Thesis
Risa Avena serves as the Benefits & HRIS Manager at Thesis, a role she has held since 2022. In this position, she focuses on managing employee benefits and Human Resource Information Systems. Her work is centered in Portland, Oregon, where she contributes to the organization by implementing effective HR strategies that align with the company's goals.
Previous Employment Experience
Prior to her current role, Risa Avena worked at PAE as a Benefits Program Manager from 2021 to 2022. She also held the position of Benefits & Leaves/HR Manager at New Seasons Market from 2018 to 2021. Her earlier experience includes roles at Whole Foods Market, where she was an HR Manager and Benefits & Payroll Manager, and at TBG West as an Executive/HR Assistant.
Education and Expertise
Risa Avena specializes in developing and managing workplace accommodations and ADA compliance programs. She focuses on empowering organizations to provide progressive employee benefits and leave programs. Her expertise in HR practices supports her personal mission to promote health and well-being for all employees.
Advocacy and Professional Values
Risa Avena advocates for authentic presence in the workplace. She emphasizes the importance of aligning organizational missions, visions, and values with HR practices. Her commitment to fostering a supportive work environment reflects her dedication to employee well-being and organizational integrity.
Career Timeline
Risa Avena's career spans multiple roles in human resources and benefits management. She began her professional journey at BMG Music Publishing as a Royalties Coordinator in 2005. Over the years, she has accumulated extensive experience in HR, including positions at Whole Foods Market and TBWA\, Media Arts Lab, contributing to her comprehensive understanding of employee benefits and HR systems.