Dr. Shonna Waters is an award-winning organizational psychologist and executive with broad expertise in people strategy and transformation, bringing over two decades of experience as a university professor, leadership coach, operational leader, researcher, and scientist. Most recently, she was a Vice President and early-stage employee at a unicorn startup, BetterUp, where she built and led teams in multiple functions including behavioral science, strategic partnerships and alliances, and executive advisory. She has supported Fortune 500 companies and leaders as a consultant and advisor to drive strategic growth and address complex human issues. She combines cutting-edge data-driven insights with practical guidance and experience to help companies reshape thinking, processes, and practices for lasting impact.

She began her career as an internal and external consultant across sectors and industries, advising organizations on a wide range of people systems issues, including selection, development, leadership and succession, performance management, governance, and compensation. Prior to joining BetterUp, she served in executive leadership roles at the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the U.S. Government.

Shonna is a recognized thought leader in human resources, psychology, and business, and a sought-after speaker at industry conferences, corporate events, and podcasts, where she shares her insights with audiences worldwide. She is also an ICF certified coach, having completed her certificate in Leadership Coaching from Georgetown University's Leadership Coaching Program. She has published peer-reviewed journal articles, handbook chapters, magazine and blog articles, as well as over 60 technical reports. She is the author of two award-winning books -- The Practical Guide to HR Analytics and The Coaching Shift: How A Coaching Mindset and Skills Can Change You,Your Interactions, and the World Around You.

She has also been cited in renowned media outlets such as CNBC, Fast Company, Forbes, and Axios.