Nicole Long is an accomplished Human Resources and Total Rewards leader with more than 30 years of experience across the private, non-profit, and public sectors. She has successfully led HR and rewards strategies for organizations ranging from 100 to 100,000 associates. Nicole holds a Master of Science in Management with a concentration in Human Resources and Organizational Behavior, along with SHRM-SCP and WorldatWork CCP and TRLC certifications. She is committed to continuous learning in leadership, HR strategy, and emerging industry trends.
In her current role as Associate Vice Chancellor for Classification and Compensation for the University System of Georgia, Nicole leads enterprise-wide compensation and job architecture for more than 100,000 faculty, staff, and student employees while also supporting the transition to a new ERP system. Previously, she served as Compensation Manager at Printpack, where she oversaw compensation programs for a multinational manufacturing company with over 3,500 employees. Her diverse background in healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and government positions her as a dynamic leader capable of driving people-focused initiatives across varied industries.
Nicole is Past President of the Atlanta Area Compensation Association, an elite WorldatWork affiliate organization, and currently serves as President of the South Metro HR Association. Her leadership and strategic insight have established her as a trusted advisor in the design and execution of innovative HR and total rewards programs that advance organizational success.
A rare native Atlantan, Nicole enjoys the warmth and culture of the South. She is married and has three adult children—none of whom chose a career in HR. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and traveling, especially to destinations with a beach.
Turning a Sour Merit Cycle into a Top Shelf Strategy
Lila Cockerell Theatre, Street Level | Featured Session