As a dedicated and solutions-driven cross-functional leader, Barbara merges an accounting and operations background with expertise in — and passion for — the human side of business, and the Gagen employee experience. A deep believer in innovation, she is passionate and vehement about introducing new methods, tools and ideas to break silos and better the business.

As the Head of People at Gagen MacDonald, Barbara leads company operations in support of Gagen’s ambitious strategy and growth plans. First joining the firm as an Assistant Controller, she is currently a member of the Gagen Leadership team, responsible for HR, governance and operations. Using her unique eye for both the art and science of leading, she constantly seeks to design systems, structures and processes that drive efficiency, promote equity and help Gagen grow.

Barbara also leads Gagen's DE&I Council, through which she helps Gagen better reflect the world in which we live by cultivating a workplace and culture of inclusiveness — in which every individual can be their true self and, as a result, do their best work. Engaging employees on relevant DE&I matters, her goal is always to build and demonstrate empathy, and to get full, authentic commitment to action. Prior to Gagen MacDonald, Barbara spent almost nine years in the multimedia production industry at Harpo Productions, where she worked as an Accounting Manager. There, she handled the accounting operations for multiple Harpo-related entities.