Lea Lucas-Jones, JSD, PHR
Talent Acquisition & HR Leader
Elevating Talent Management and Intelligence Strategies
X/Twitter Alum
Can you share your journey into the work you do? What experiences, moments, or values led you here?
My journey into people operations and talent strategy has been shaped by both my legal education and a deep interest in how organizations create environments where people can thrive. My Juris Doctor degree provided me with a strong foundation in understanding how laws, policies, and systems influence workplace practices and employee protections. It also sharpened my ability to think critically, analyze complex issues, and advocate thoughtfully—skills that have been invaluable throughout my career.
While studying law, I became increasingly interested in how policies and systems impact people’s everyday experiences. That curiosity, plus some serendipity happenings, led me toward human resources and organizational strategy, where I could apply my legal and analytical background in a way that directly supports both employees and business goals.
For almost 15 years, I’ve worked across HR operations, talent acquisition, and strategic program management, partnering with leaders to develop equitable hiring strategies, strengthening the businesses through my consulting, and designing programs that support employee growth. My legal background continues to inform how I approach areas like employment law, recruiting compliance, and organizational policy—ensuring that systems are both compliant and thoughtfully designed.
At the core of my work is the belief that strong organizations are built through intentional leadership, inclusive practices, and opportunities for people to grow. That belief continues to guide the work I do today.
Who or what has most influenced your leadership and commitment to this work? This could include mentors, community, lived experience, books, faith, or movements.
My leadership and commitment to this work was influenced by a group of incredible mentors supported me throughout my journey. I was fortunate to learn from a diverse group of individuals—including several Black women leaders—who modeled excellence, resilience, and integrity in the spaces they occupied. Seeing how they led with confidence, wisdom, and purpose helped me understand what was possible and encouraged me to pursue leadership with intention.
One of my earliest and most meaningful mentors was my grandmother, Lee. She instilled in me the importance of education, faith, and perseverance. She constantly encouraged me to pursue my education and to never stop growing intellectually and personally. Her guidance went beyond academics—she reminded me to stay grounded in my faith, to trust in God’s presence, and to remain prayerful in all things. Those values continue to guide how I approach both my career and leadership.
Professionally, mentors and colleagues from different backgrounds and industries also played a significant role in shaping my perspective. They challenged me to think strategically, to lead with empathy, and to recognize the responsibility that comes with helping shape workplace culture and opportunity for others.
For those who feel called to doing this work, where would you suggest they begin? Is there a book, organization, practice, or resource that helped shape you?
For anyone who feels called to work, no matter the path, you should commit to a lifetime of continuous learning and reflection. For me, investing in learning, seeking mentorship, and being intentional about learning from the communities and those around me. While I love researching and providing solutions that I developed, listening to people’s lived experiences and being able to learn from those experiences, has been one of the most meaningful ways I’ve grown in my career.
Personally, my faith and the values instilled in me by my family have also shaped how I approach this work. Staying prayerful, grounded, and committed to service helps me maintain perspective and purpose, especially when navigating complex challenges.
Ultimately, I encourage people to stay curious, seek mentors, and remain open to the many paths that can lead into this work. Purpose-driven leadership is often built through both professional experience and personal growth over time.
What wisdom or encouragement would you offer to the next generation of Black women leaders entering this space?
My encouragement to the next generation of Black women leaders is to recognize that your voice, perspective, presence, and leadership in multiple settings are deeply valuable. Your lived experiences and insights bring an important perspective that can help shape more thoughtful and inclusive workplaces. Even in spaces where you may feel underrepresented, know that your presence and contributions matter.
I would also encourage you to stay committed to your growth—Continue investing in your education, seek mentors who will challenge and support you, and remain curious about how systems and organizations work. Each experience along the way helps shape the leader you are becoming.
Most importantly, stay grounded in your values and build community. Community and connection are key part of growth.
Also, remember to show yourself grace and rest when your body and mind need it. Don’t allow your quest to be one without time to reset and to experience peace. Protecting your peace is a must!
How can people stay connected to and support your work? Please share your website, social media, current campaigns, or other ways to get involved.
You can find me on LinkedIn at