Cleta M. Galvez, Ph.D.

With a passion for engaging complex organizational problems and a genuine commitment to people, Cleta brings a blend of Human Resources expertise and experience to any organization. As a trailblazer, a strategist, a change agent, and a people advocate, Cleta demonstrates an unwavering commitment to make a difference. As a transformational leader, Cleta is a conscious, motivated, and an empathic leader who can guide teams to deliver on the vision while assuring individuals have opportunity to grow in their respective roles.

In her 30-year career at 3M, Cleta held multiple developmental and leadership positions with increasing responsibility, from a site location to corporate offices. During her tenure at 3M, a multinational company, known for its diverse operations, Cleta had the privilege of working across various international divisions and staff units. Her roles encompassed a wide range of functions including HR Business Partner, Organization Design, Change Management, Mergers & Acquisition Integration, Talent Management, Leadership and Executive Development, and Coaching. A knack for understanding both the big picture (enterprise-level challenges) and individual business and people nuances, her skills were leveraged across the global organization. She was a bridge between theory and practice, supporting the organization’s sustainable growth.

In her next chapter, Cleta moved to Medtronic to establish an Organization Development and Change Office, laying the groundwork for transformation. Cleta developed an internal and external consulting team, infrastructure, and training for Organization Design and Change Management to educate HR and line leadership. During this period, Cleta served on the Change and Transformation Council of The Conference Board, which allowed her to get acquainted with this exceptional institution.

In February 2019, Cleta started work for The Conference Board as a Program Director for the Change, Transformation and Organization Design event. She continues to shape the future of work. Her recent work in the human capital function of The Conference Board has honed her understanding of today’s leadership challenges.

Cleta holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Development from the University of Texas at Austin. During her academic journey, she collaborated with acclaimed author James Michener on her dissertation, earning the Kappa Delta Pi Distinguished Dissertation Award. She engaged a Fulbright Scholarship in India, where she immersed herself in Bombay’s culture and enjoyed a broad and structured learning experience across the subcontinent. Cleta’s solid educational foundation began at Siena College, where she earned her BA. Later in her career she received Coach Certification from the Hudson Institute of Coaching.

Beyond Corporate America
Cleta is currently working with a team to implement a Mental Health and Well Being Ministry at her church. She has established a partnership with The University of Saint Thomas to identify well-being best practices nationally, and parish needs. The work has caught national attention, in the church, which has accelerated strong partnerships to move the organization forward.