PSHRA Michigan Chapter Board of Directors
Rachel Matti
President
Oakland County
Rachel Matti is an HR Business Partner for Oakland County with over five years of experience in both public and private sector human resources. Rachel holds an MSL with a concentration in Human Resources and is HRCI certified. She is known for her energetic personality and ability to develop connections. In her personal life, Rachel enjoys spending time outside with her loved ones, preferably on a boat.
Jared Gajos
President Elect
City of Warren
Jared H. Gajos is the Human Resources Director for the City of Warren with over 10 years of experience in HR, focusing on risk management, labor relations, and union operations. He holds a Master of Studies in Law with a concentration in HR from Wayne State, a CLRL from MSU, and is a Certified Public Manager through SVSU. Outside of work, Jared enjoys gardening, serves as Vice Chair for the Alliance of Coalitions for Healthy Communities, and enjoys time with his dog, Arya.
Lisa Suida
Director of Membership
Charter Township Of Shelby
Lisa Suida the Human Resources Director for the Charter Township of Shelby and a dedicated HR professional with over 30 years of experience, including 15 years in public sector HR leadership. She holds an MBA with a concentration in Human Resources and maintains both SHRM-SCP and MSU CLRP certifications. Outside of work, Lisa enjoys life as a wife and mother, traveling, reading, and spending time with her dogs.
Karen Bathanti
Director of Sponsorship
Bye Bye Bully
Karen L. Bathanti is a seasoned HR leader with 25+ years of experience, including senior roles in Macomb County Government. She founded OakMac SHRM and cofounded Bye Bye Bully to combat workplace bullying. Karen serves on the Martha T. Berry Foundation board, advocating for elder care, and runs her own HR consulting business. Her work reflects a deep commitment to organizational excellence, community engagement, and creating respectful workplaces.
Heather Dery
Director of Communications
Michigan Gaming Control Board
Heather Dery is the Employee Engagement and Continuous Improvement Specialist at the Michigan Gaming Control Board with 11 years in public service. She holds a Master of Public Administration from Park University, maintains a PSHRA-CP certification, and is passionate about designing and leading programs that fostering a culture of continuous learning through innovative employee development initiatives. Outside of work, Heather is a mother of three, a food and wine enthusiast, and enjoys globetrotting with her husband.
Kaitlyn Timm
Director of Administration
City of Sterling Heights
Kaitlyn Timm serves as a Human Resources Coordinator for the City of Sterling Heights, specializing in Talent Acquisition with a strong focus on recruiting, retention, and building positive relationships throughout the organization. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources Development with a minor in Employment Systems and Standards from Oakland University. In her free time, Kaitlyn enjoys boating and spending time with her friends and family.
