Leadership Spotlight: Carlos Gallardo

Carlos Gallardo is not your typical Vice President of Human Resources. While many executives spend their days behind desks, Carlos takes a hands-on approach—one that brings him directly to the heart of the organization. When not working remotely, he joins front-line leaders for branch visits and ride-alongs, experiencing their daily challenges firsthand. Whether he’s delivering executive presentations, analyzing HR data, or even pausing to clean port-a-johns, Carlos remains fully immersed in the work that keeps the company running.

As a leader at the nation’s largest construction site services company, Carlos understands the importance of staying connected with employees at all levels. He believes leadership isn’t about issuing directives from afar—it’s about being engaged in the realities of the workforce. While making time for employees can be challenging, through strategic time management and a commitment to hands-on leadership, he ensures his presence is felt where it matters most.

A Leader Who Listens and Acts 

Carlos is more than just a trusted executive—he’s a driving force behind meaningful improvements across the company. His leadership extends beyond traditional HR responsibilities. By engaging with employees on the front lines, he identifies inefficiencies, streamlines processes, and helps create a more effective work environment. Experiencing challenges firsthand allows him to develop solutions that directly impact productivity and employee satisfaction.

More than a policy enforcer, Carlos serves as a bridge between the frontline workforce and the company’s strategic decision-makers. His presence in the field enables him to address operational constraints at the source, rather than relying on secondhand reports. Because he actively engages with employees, policy enforcement becomes a collaborative effort rather than a top-down mandate. This approach fosters a culture of inclusion where employees feel heard and valued, making compliance a shared commitment rather than an imposed rule.

The Seven Leadership Pillars 

When asked about his leadership philosophy, Carlos shared seven guiding principles that shape his approach to leading effectively:

1. Be Present. Leadership isn’t about sitting behind a desk; it’s about showing up where the work happens. Being visible and accessible builds trust and credibility.
2. Listen First. Employees on the front lines often have the best insights into what works and what doesn’t. A great leader takes the time to hear their concerns and ideas.
3. Lead by Example. Never ask someone to do something you wouldn’t do yourself. Leading with integrity means demonstrating the values and work ethic you expect from others.
4. Maintain a Flexible Mindset. Challenges will always arise—staying adaptable and solution-oriented ensures problems are addressed effectively and with a level head.
5. Invest in People. Training and development aren’t just about improving productivity; they show employees they are valued, leading to greater job satisfaction and retention.
6. Keep It Real. Transparency and honesty are key to building strong relationships within an organization. Authenticity fosters a culture of trust and mutual respect.
7. Make It Better. There’s always room for improvement. Whether it’s refining processes, strengthening company culture, or enhancing leadership, every day is an opportunity to grow.

A Leadership Legacy That Inspires 

Carlos’s leadership style isn’t just about managing people—it’s about empowering them. By immersing himself in daily operations, he builds trust, strengthens relationships, and improves overall efficiency. His willingness to work alongside employees, rather than oversee them from a distance, sets a standard for what true leadership should be.

At a time when many leaders remain disconnected from the workforce, Carlos stands out as a model of engagement, commitment, and authenticity. He understands that leadership isn’t about titles or hierarchy—it’s about being present, listening, and continuously striving to improve the organization. His hands-on approach has not only enhanced operations but has also created a work environment where employees feel respected, valued, and motivated to succeed.

By embodying these leadership principles, Carlos proves that the best leaders don’t just oversee the work—they step into it, side by side with their teams. His influence extends far beyond HR, shaping the entire company culture and ensuring that employees at all levels feel heard and supported. His leadership reinforces a simple but powerful truth: when leaders are visible, engaged, and committed, the entire organization thrives.

About Carlos 

Born in Mexico, Carlos immigrated to the U.S. and chose to serve in the military as a way to give back to the country that provided him with countless opportunities. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran with 23 years of service, he built a diverse career spanning combat arms, aviation, support, and training units, gaining extensive experience in global operations.

Today, he is dedicated to supporting veterans in their transition to civilian life and actively serves his community as a member of his city’s traffic commission. He currently holds the position of Vice President of Human Resources at United Site Services.

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