As executive director of people and culture, Russell is responsible for designing, creating, and implementing innovative programs to develop and enhance culture, improve, and measure employee performance, and support organizational change across Crestone’s growing firm. Russell has more than 15 years of human resources leadership experience.

In this role, Russell executes Crestone’s integrated talent management strategy and delivers a bespoke candidate and employee experience. He is a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Prior to joining Crestone, Russell was a director of human resources at Omaha Community Foundation, where he was responsible for culture development, recruiting, onboarding, and total rewards.

Russell is a certified Culture Index Facilitator, Predictive Index Facilitator, Dare to Lead trained and a SHRM Senior Certified Professional.

Russell is a very involved parent who supports his children in all their endeavors, which happen to include marching band, welding, show choir, color guard, and dog shows.

What do you love most about being part of Crestone?
Crestone has assembled some of the best talent in the industry. What a privilege to manage the development and retention of such an ambitious group of people.
What are you passionate about personally?
I am very passionate about education. The changing landscape of that particular profession, especially since the beginning of the pandemic, has challenged teachers in ways never imagined.
What quality of yours makes you best suited to what you do?
I have a passion for culture creation and reimagination. Compliance is a cornerstone of the work I do, but I never lose sight of the people who are affected with every decision. Approaching this work from the heart always leads to the best choices.