Kerr Bacchus has been a Human Resources Business Partner since joining the City of Seattle during the all-virtual days of the COVID pandemic. She writes about her love for welcoming people to the department and for finding ways to help people connect with one another and HSD’s mission and equity goals.
What is your role at Seattle Human Services?
I’ve been a Human Resources Business Partner with HSD for almost four years. My main areas of focus are onboarding new hires, administering employee benefits, and maintaining department employee records.
What made you want to work in human services?
I’m mission-driven in the work I do, so HSD’s mission of connecting people with resources and solutions and building a stronger, healthier community spoke to me. Even if I’m in front of a computer most of the day, I feel like I’m playing a part in making the city I love a little better.
How has your job changed in recent years?
I was hired with HSD during COVID, so it’s changed a lot. The first few years were tough, not only because there was a steep learning curve, but also because it was hard to make connections when we were all working remotely. It was also more difficult to learn about HSD and the City since many programs and resources were on hold during that time. In the last few years, though, we in Human Resources and I in my role have been able to focus more on improving some of our programs and processes which has been fun. And now with the recent Workday payroll solution implementation, many parts of my job that I was familiar with and confident in have changed. So it’s kind of like starting over.
What do you love about your job?
I love getting to interact with most HSD employees and leaders at some point in some way. Whether it’s answering someone’s I-don’t-know-who-to-ask questions, tackling a benefit enrollment issue, or addressing an ID badge that stopped working, I like to help if I can. I also love being the welcoming face of HSD at orientation when we hire new employees.
How do you contribute to HSD’s overarching goals related to racial equity?
One of the ways I contribute to advancing racial equity at HSD is by ensuring that every new hire is introduced to our department’s equity goals and the work of our Change Team. I’m proud to highlight the trailblazing efforts the City of Seattle has made to champion racial equity, setting an example for others. This conversation is one of the first things I share when talking about what makes HSD a great place to work. I encourage all new employees to dive in, get involved, and become active participants in this mission.
What motivates you or keeps you going?
The opportunity to travel and explore is what drives me. I have a passion for discovering new cultures, visiting places I’ve never been, meeting fascinating people, and embarking on exciting adventures. I’m constantly planning my next journey, often as a solo traveler. I’m especially drawn to destinations that offer majestic scenery, unforgettable animal encounters, beautiful swimming spots, delicious food, artsy communities, and/or a good adrenaline rush. Travel allows me to push my boundaries, try new things, and step outside my comfort zone. It’s a way for me to reconnect with myself and rediscover the beauty of the world around me.
What’s one piece of advice for HSD newcomers or recent graduates in your field?
No matter how much you have on your plate, remember to carve out time for yourself. Rest, nourishment, and renewal help refine your focus and fortify your resilience.