Business, Legal and Law

CDF Labor Law LLP Expands Firm Leadership, Elevates Six Women

IRVINE, Calif. -- CDF Labor Law LLP is proud to announce the promotion of two attorneys to Partner and four to Senior Counsel, all of whom are talented women employment defense litigators. These promotions reflect our commitment to cultivating an inclusive environment that values and advances our team members' diverse skills and contributions. These individuals, part of our nearly 50-strong legal team, exemplify CDF's dedication to guiding and defending employers in California's complex labor and employment legal terrain.

"Each recently elevated attorney at CDF Labor Law LLP has consistently showcased exceptional legal acumen and an unwavering commitment to superior client service," stated Firm Managing Partner Marie DiSante. "In applauding these advancements, we reaffirm our firm's steadfast dedication to delivering top-tier talent to safeguard, defend and advocate for employers throughout California."

CDF New Partners (in alphabetical order by first name):

Desiree J. Ho (San Diego - Partner) has extensive experience across diverse industries and understands the vital role of tailored solutions for clients. She is well-versed in defending employers in wage and hour litigation, including PAGA and class actions, as well as single and multi-plaintiff lawsuits for discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, and other employer-related claims. She advocates taking preemptive measures to best protect clients against wage and hour and other areas of exposure, works with clients to develop strong policies and practices, and guides businesses through difficult employment decisions. Desiree was named to the 2024 list of "Ones to Watch" by Best Lawyers in America(R). She received her J.D. from UCLA School of Law in 2016.

Erin A. Owen (San Diego - Partner) prioritizes personalized service, crafting strategies aligned with client goals in both employment and business litigation. She is deeply committed to her client's well-being and synthesizes a deep understanding of their business, culture, and risk tolerance to best address their legal needs. Erin's employment litigation expertise spans class and PAGA wage and hour disputes, single and multi-party wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, among other claims, across diverse industries. In business litigation, she handles breach of contract, business torts, trade secret litigation, and shareholder / partner / principal disputes, showcasing knowledge of issues unique to businesses at different stages of their lifecycle. Her comprehensive experience includes counseling businesses planning for and in the transactions process, including managing litigation and its impact on a transaction critical to an organization. Erin graduated from Pepperdine University School of Law in 1996.

CDF New Senior Counsel (in alphabetical order by first name):

Candace R. DesBaillets (San Francisco - Senior Counsel) advises and defends employers, providing practical solutions to mitigate risks. With expertise in wage and hour compliance, termination risk assessment, family and medical leave, and disability accommodation, she handles litigation matters spanning discrimination, harassment, retaliation, contracts, and employment-related torts. Candace has a diverse client portfolio across industries, such as technology, retail, food and beverage, construction, healthcare, and aerospace. Her experience includes representing employers in state and federal courts and before agencies like the EEOC, CRD, and DLSE. With a background in critical gender studies, she offers unique insights to help employers navigate California's dynamic legal landscape. Candance was named to the 2023 and 2024 lists of "Ones to Watch" by Best Lawyers in America(R). She graduated from Berkeley School of Law in 2016.

Dalia Z. Khatib (Sacramento - Senior Counsel) defends California employers on a variety of issues, with a special emphasis on wage and hour class actions, as well as Private Attorney General Act (PAGA) litigation. She has successfully defended employers throughout all stages of litigation, including through trial. In addition to her legal acumen, Dalia's unique background includes helping manage a family-owned marketing and software development company. This hands-on experience managing a workforce has given her a unique perspective in her legal practice and a deep understanding of the challenges that businesses face, particularly in the dynamic landscape of California. This perspective allows Dalia to provide comprehensive guidance to employers on all employee-related issues, including termination, leaves of absence, wage and hour regulations, and compliance with California's privacy regulations impacting employers. Dalia was named to the 2024 list of "Ones to Watch" by Best Lawyers in America(R). She graduated from Davis School of Law in 2018.

Linda Wang (Los Angeles - Senior Counsel) represents clients in diverse industries, including healthcare, food and beverage, manufacturing, and retail. Her practices focus on single-plaintiff FEHA claims, wage and hour disputes, and PAGA and class actions. Wang has also assisted clients in navigating the new California privacy laws (CFRA), including drafting workplace privacy policies. She has successfully defeated wage and hour class action, including obtaining a complete denial of class certification motion in favor of employer. Beyond litigation, she advises on workplace disputes, wage compliance, and privacy laws, showcasing a comprehensive approach to client needs. Fluent in Mandarin, Linda provides legal advice in Mandarin and offers pro bono support, demonstrating her commitment to accessibility and client well-being in the complex landscape of California labor law. Linda was named to the 2024 list of "Ones to Watch" by Best Lawyers in America(R). She graduated from Irvine School of Law in 2017.

Tashayla "Shay" Billington (Sacramento - Senior Counsel) defends California companies against wage and hour class actions and single-plaintiff claims involving discrimination, retaliation, harassment, wrongful termination, and employment-related torts. She also excels in strategic legal maneuvers, conducting thorough discovery processes, and handling motions, mediations, and arbitrations with a track record of success. She has notable experience in defending unfair labor practice charges and counseling both unionized and non-unionized employers on various aspects of labor relations. Committed to protecting businesses and ensuring compliance with California's dynamic employment laws, she also provides comprehensive legal representation with assertive and innovative strategies to navigate the complexities of the legal landscape. Shay was named to the 2023 and 2024 lists of "Ones to Watch" by Best Lawyers in America(R). She graduated Order of the Coif and Order of the Barristers from McGeorge School of Law in 2015.

About CDF Labor Law LLP

For 30 years, CDF Labor Law LLP has distinguished itself as one of the top labor, employment and business immigration law firms in California, representing employers in single-plaintiff and class action lawsuits and advising employers on related legal compliance and risk avoidance. The firm has five offices throughout California - in Sacramento, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego.

For more information, visit: https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/ and find CDF on LinkedIn to learn more about how the firm protects California employers.

For access to timely alerts on the latest California labor and employment law developments, sign up for the firm's blog by visiting: https://www.CalLaborLaw.com/.

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/attorneys/bio/marie-disante

https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/attorneys/bio/desiree-j-ho

https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/attorneys/bio/erin-a.-owen

https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/attorneys/bio/candace-r.-desbaillets

https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/attorneys/bio/dalia-z-khatib

https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/attorneys/bio/linda-wang

https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/attorneys/bio/tashayla-shay-billington

https://www.linkedin.com/company/cdflaborlaw/

Related link: https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Business, Economic Development, Government, Real Estate

ImpactAZ 2025 documents economic strides of statewide supplier-diversity accelerator

PHOENIX, Ariz. -- Thinkzilla Consulting Group today announced that ImpactAZ 2025, a statewide supplier-diversity accelerator serving black and other minority business owners, has announced the results from its inaugural cohort:

* Retail owners averaged 186 new customers

* 40% of cohort companies saw an increase in revenue and strategic partnerships

* 22% of firms hired staff or management

* Companies got $200,000 in investment

* Firms secured $2M in corporate contracts

Thirty-five participants selected for the accelerator completed the program, with 75% attending all technical assistance programming.

"Cohort CEOs are seeing such strong results because of their absolute commitment to opening up new doors of opportunity for small and historically disadvantaged businesses," said Dr. Velma Trayham, who created the accelerator and whose nonprofit provides the program management. "Corporations and Government entities expect excellence in their suppliers, and these leaders are ready to deliver."

A private celebration on January 16 will mark the cohort's graduation and signal the opening of applications for the second of the accelerators, which will commence on April 23, 2024.

About ImpactAZ 2025:

Developed in response to the State of Black Business Report, which highlighted financial gaps and opportunities for diverse business owners, ImpactAZ 2025 is a state-wide three-year series of supplier-diversity accelerators, the collective goal of which is to develop 200 startup companies, see 500 firms hire additional employees and assist 50 companies in getting corporate contracts. Using entrepreneurship as an engine, its fundamental objective is to decrease the racial wealth gap and economic insecurity among minorities.

Each of the three 36-week accelerators combines live mentoring, business coaching, and networking opportunities at its technical assistance hub in Scottsdale with online education about financial management, sales, business operations, and doing business with corporations. Personalized benchmarks and KPIs undergird each cohort company's growth plan for strengthening capital readiness and operating capacity and increasing revenue.

The solutions-drive accelerator is a program of the nonprofit Millionaire Mastermind Academy, which provides technical assistance for the initiative. Collaborators include the Black Chamber of Arizona and the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

The accelerator enjoys broad corporate and community support led by JPMorgan Chase. Aventiv, Bank of America, Arizona Public Service, Salt River Project, Via West Group, American Landmark Apartments, Greater Phoenix Economic Council, the City of Phoenix, Commerce Bank AZ, SCORE, and the AIANNH Project NABEDC, operated by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation, are additional sponsors.

Learn more at https://impactaz2025.com/.

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.gpec.org/blog/regional-report-state-of-black-business-2022/

https://millionairemastermindacademy.org/

https://blackchamberaz.com/

https://www.azhcc.com/

Related link: https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Business, California Labor and Workforce Development Agency, Hobby Lobby ruling, Legal and Law, Private Attorneys General Act

A PAGA Victory to Bring in the New Year: Trial Court Holds LWDA Responsible for Prevailing Employer’s Costs

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. -- Last week a trial court in Alameda County entered an order permitting Hobby Lobby Stores, Inc. to recover nearly $125,000 in costs from the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency (LWDA). Hobby Lobby incurred these costs during six years of hard-fought litigation involving claims brought under California's Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA), CDF Labor Law LLP announced today.

The lawsuit was based on allegations that Hobby Lobby failed to allow retail store workers to use suitable seats while they were working. Since the outset of the case in 2017, Hobby Lobby maintained that the placement of seats in retail stores and the use of seats by working employees would create a risk of injury. The lawsuit culminated in a three-week bench trial in February and March of 2023, which resulted in a complete victory for Hobby Lobby. The trial court filed its order requiring the LWDA to pay for Hobby Lobby's costs after several rounds of briefing related to the matter in which both the plaintiff and the State of California attempted to avoid any accountability for the failed PAGA claim.

CDF Labor LLP partners Brent M. Giddens and Corey J. Cabral, Chair of CDF's PAGA Litigation Practice, represented Hobby Lobby in this lawsuit since the time it was filed in 2017, at trial, and through the present.

Plaintiff's Effort to Avoid Liability for Costs

After judgment was entered in Hobby Lobby's favor, the company sought to recover its costs as the prevailing party. California's general cost shifting rule, set forth in Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) section 1032, provides that prevailing parties are entitled to recover their costs as a matter of right unless "otherwise expressly provided by statute." Recoverable costs are determined by statute. A prevailing party can only recover attorney fees as a recoverable cost if authorized by statute that "refers to the award of 'costs and attorney's fees.'" (CCP §§ 1033.5(a)(10)(B) and 1033.5(c)(5).)

Plaintiff responded to Hobby Lobby's effort to recover of costs by filing a motion to tax. Therein, she argued that the PAGA's attorney fee and cost provision, Labor Code section 2699(g)(1), serves as an exception to California's general cost shifting rule. The PAGA's fee and cost provision states, "Any employee who prevails in any action shall be entitled to an award of reasonable attorney's fees and costs." Plaintiff also argued that public policy prohibits the recovery of costs by defendant-employers that successfully defend PAGA claims. She claimed that making PAGA plaintiffs liable for an employer's costs would have a "chilling effect" on PAGA litigation and undermine its purpose.

Hobby Lobby's Request to Recover Costs from the LWDA

Hobby Lobby opposed Plaintiff's motion to tax, demonstrating that PAGA's fee and cost provision is not an express exception to the general cost shifting rule. It merely establishes that attorney fees are a recoverable cost for prevailing employees; it does not foreclose a prevailing employer from recovering its costs. As for Plaintiff's public policy arguments, Hobby Lobby made the novel argument that the LWDA is responsible for an employer's costs resulting from an unsuccessful PAGA lawsuit. The company's argument was predicated on the unique relationship between a PAGA plaintiff and the LWDA. Specifically, in any PAGA lawsuit, the LWDA is the "real party in interest," the plaintiff serves as a "proxy" or "agent" of the LWDA, and the plaintiff has no personal right or interest at stake. And the LWDA retains "primacy over private enforcement efforts." Moreover, the California Supreme Court and Courts of Appeal have held that PAGA does not violate constitutional separation of powers requirements because the LWDA retains sufficient control over PAGA litigation to render it a constitutional delegation of authority.

Just three days after Hobby Lobby filed its opposition-before the matter was fully briefed-the trial court weighed in on the matter. The court entered an order continuing the hearing date for plaintiff's motion to tax, inviting the LWDA to file an amicus brief, and setting a schedule for supplemental briefing. The trial court requested that the LWDA and the parties address several topics, including the reciprocity of benefit and burden as it applies to the LWDA and factual information about the dollar value of civil penalties the LWDA collected through PAGA cases.

The LWDA's Response to the Trial Court's Order

The LWDA declined to file an amicus brief and, instead, enlisted the Department of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE) to intervene on its behalf. The DLSE argued that it had a right to intervene on behalf of the LWDA because it was authorized to administer the PAGA pursuant to delegations from the LWDA and the Department of Industrial Relations, and because the LWDA had a material interest in the outcome of the trial court's decision of allocation of liability for Hobby Lobby's costs. However, as discussed further below, the DLSE parroted Plaintiff's arguments that no employer may recover costs resulting from a failed PAGA action.

Hobby Lobby opposed the DLSE's intervention, arguing that it was an unnecessary procedural tactic aimed at precluding the LWDA's liability for "pre-intervention costs." The trial court ultimately granted the DLSE's request to intervene but noted that the intervention-status "will not determine the substantive issue of whether the LWDA is responsible for the costs."

The DLSE then filed a brief in support of Plaintiff's motion to tax costs and agreeing with Plaintiff's argument that employers have no right to recover costs as a prevailing party in a PAGA lawsuit. The DLSE claimed that the trial court should interpret the PAGA's fee and cost provision as a "one-way cost shifting" provision akin to that in California's minimum wage laws. The DLSE did not address the value of civil penalties the LWDA collected through PAGA cases. Nonetheless, the DLSE's argument relied on the oft-cited legislative purpose of the PAGA-to supplement and increase enforcement of the Labor Code by public agencies which lack adequate resources. Moreover, the DLSE disavowed the LWDA's control over PAGA litigation. The DLSE went as far as to claim the "LWDA cannot prevent an aggrieved employee from pursuing a PAGA claim that it would not otherwise prosecute."

CDF's Public Records Requests

When the trial court invited the LWDA's amicus brief and requested financial information about PAGA civil penalties, Hobby Lobby's counsel doubted the DLSE would provide the information. Accordingly, soon after the trial court invited the LWDA's amicus brief, the firm submitted Public Record Act requests to the LWDA seeking financial information related to PAGA litigation, including the amount of civil penalties the LWDA recovered in recent years. In doing so, the firm obtained evidence that undermines the oft-cited and out-of-date findings that the LWDA has "scarce" or "limited" resources.

As anticipated, the evidence established that the LWDA has received a staggering amount of civil penalties from PAGA litigation. In just the last three fiscal years, the LWDA has received approximately $375 million in civil penalties. The evidence also demonstrated the funds were not being used as required under PAGA. Specifically, Labor Code section 2699(i) states that the civil penalties received by the LWDA are "for enforcement of labor laws, including the administration of this part, and for education of employers and employees about their rights and responsibilities under this code, to be continuously appropriated to supplement and not supplant the funding to the agency for those purposes." The LWDA's records indicate the PAGA funds have been used to make a $107,000,000 "loan" to the General Fund, to supplant funding to the agency's various departments, and other non-enforcement uses. However, many of the funds are simply not allocated to any use and remain in the Labor and Workforce Development Fund.

Hobby Lobby's Supplemental Briefing

In its supplemental briefing, Hobby Lobby buttressed its arguments that the PAGA's fee and cost shifting provision can only be interpreted as authorizing prevailing employees to recover attorney's fees as a cost under CCP sections 1032, 1033.5(a)(10)(B), and 1033.5(c)(5). The PAGA's fee and cost provision does not displace California's general cost shifting rule, and it is not a "one-way cost shifting" provision, as claimed by Plaintiff and the DLSE. Further, Hobby Lobby established that although the LWDA is not a formal party to PAGA litigation, it is the only "real party in interest" to a PAGA claim, and it has control over PAGA litigation. Hobby Lobby cited to the Legislature's delegation of authority to the LWDA to promulgate regulations under PAGA, the PAGA's notice provisions, and the LWDA's efforts to intervene in and control the resolution of other PAGA cases. Moreover, it is well established that if the LWDA directly enforced the Labor Code by filing an action and the employer prevailed, the LWDA would be liable for the employer's costs.

Hobby Lobby argued that the LWDA's failure to exercise control over PAGA litigation does not render it powerless to do so-the LWDA has both available methods and the means to control PAGA claims and prevent wasteful litigation. To that point, Hobby Lobby maintained that "the significant amount of money the LWDA has received as a result of PAGA settlements and judgments in just the last few years should preclude the DLSE (and, frankly, all California courts) from continuing to rely on the oft-repeated notion that PAGA should be construed and applied with the understanding that the 'LWDA lacks adequate staffing and resources...' " Furthermore, Hobby Lobby demonstrated the if the LWDA did lack the ability to exercise such control over PAGA litigation, the statute would be subject to constitutional challenges based on a complete delegation of the LWDA's enforcement discretion to private attorneys.

The Trial Court's Order and Anticipated Appeals

The trial court agreed with Hobby Lobby at every turn and, on December 28th, it issued a 35-page, full-throated order roundly rejecting the DLSE's arguments. You can find a copy of the order here - https://www.callaborlaw.com/_images/blog_files/2023.12.28_Order_Granting_in_Part_Motion_of_Plaintiff_to_Strike_.pdf.

This appears to be the first occasion on which the LWDA has been found liable for the costs of a prevailing employer in a PAGA case.

Although the LWDA will undoubtedly appeal the decision-just as plaintiff appealed the trial court's judgment on the merits-we are confident that the trial court's analysis and decision will withstand scrutiny. While the effect of this order is yet to be seen, we believe it is a significant victory for California employers. One can reasonably suspect that the LWDA will begin taking a more active role in the PAGA notice process and any subsequent litigation to prevent, or put a stop to, the more frivolous and wasteful PAGA lawsuits that have been burdening employers and causing economic waste across the state.

Employers faced with PAGA claims can now implement strategies during the PAGA's notice period that may increase the chances of preventing a lawsuit and litigation strategies that will increase the likelihood of an earlier and more favorable resolution. But, if forced to defend unwarranted PAGA claims, employers should be able to hang their hat on actually recovering their litigation costs because the LWDA clearly has the funds to pay for them, unlike a judgment-proof plaintiff.

About CDF Labor Law LLP

For close to 30 years, CDF Labor Law LLP has distinguished itself as one of the top labor and employment defense firms in California, representing employers in single-plaintiff and class action lawsuits, and advising employers on related legal compliance and risk avoidance. The firm has five offices throughout California - in Sacramento, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego.

For more information, visit: https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/ and find CDF on LinkedIn or Twitter to learn more about how the firm protects California employers.

Related link: https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Argyle, Business, Software

Argyle’s investments in innovation spur over 50 lenders to switch to the mortgage industry’s highest-converting VOI/E platform

NEW YORK CITY, N.Y. -- Argyle, a platform providing automated income and employment verifications for some of the largest lenders in the United States, closed a banner year of mortgage growth with 50 new IMB, credit union and bank customers. The payroll connectivity leader more than doubled the annual volume of income and employment verifications conducted on behalf of its customers to 1.5 million with the help of 15 of the top 100 mortgage lenders. Chief Commercial Officer Brian Geary attributed Argyle's increasing appeal in the mortgage vertical to the commitment of a growing team of in-house mortgage experts and the successful implementation of an ambitious innovation roadmap that is delivering tangible business advantages for customers.

After introducing multiple new platform features and adding thousands of employers to its data network, in October Argyle became the first provider of consumer-permissioned income and employment data to be named an authorized report supplier to Fannie Mae's Desktop Underwriter® (DU®) Validation Service. The collaboration helps lenders reduce mortgage repurchase risk by enabling access to relief from representations and warranties through Fannie Mae's Day 1 Certainty® initiative.

Argyle also added several new partnerships throughout the year that seamlessly integrate its verification of income and employment (VOI/E) services into loan origination software and point-of-sale platforms, including ICE Mortgage Technology (NYSE: ICE), Dark Matter Technologies, nCino (NASDAQ: NCNO) and Lenders One (managed by a subsidiary of Altisource, NASDAQ: ASPS), among others.

To support its growing mortgage customer base, Argyle created a dedicated mortgage division this year and added mortgage industry veterans Sam E. Oliver III and Terri Davis to its advisory board. Oliver is a Freddie Mac veteran of three decades, and Davis' career in mortgage spans leadership roles at Fannie Mae, ICE Mortgage Technology and Notarize.

These investments are paying dividends to Argyle's customers. Whereas legacy VOI/E providers report success rates in the range of 20-30% - requiring lenders to manually verify income and employment for most loan applicants - companies like Lake Michigan Credit Union and NFM Lending say switching to Argyle is now enabling them to achieve verification success rates north of 50%. At the same time, lenders report that Argyle saves them 80% on verification costs and cuts loan processing times by as much as seven days, resulting in higher borrower pull-through and reducing lender costs associated with rate hedging.

"Argyle is proud to close the year as the fastest-growing and highest-converting automated income and employment platform available to mortgage lenders today," said Geary. "We are helping lenders weather the storm of this challenging market cycle by making a material impact on the bottom line. As we approach the new year, our customers can count on Argyle to continue investing heavily in mortgage as we look to drive our conversion rates even higher, build deeper integrations to the mortgage tech stack and round out our GSE approvals."

Argyle has been recognized this year by Fintech Nexus as an Emerging Fintech Innovator, Forbes as one of America's Best Startup Employers, Tearsheet as the Best Alternative Data Product and Fintech Futures as a Fintech Startup of the Year. HousingWire honored Argyle CEO Shmulik Fishman among its 2023 Tech Trendsetters and named John Hardesty, general manager of Argyle's mortgage division, a 2023 HW Insider.

About Argyle:

Argyle is the leading provider of direct-source access to real-time income and employment data. With Argyle, companies automate critical workflows-including income and employment verifications, deposit switches, wage advances and loan repayments-so they can build better, more efficient processes, reduce risk and scale their businesses. Argyle serves the mortgage, background checks, personal lending and banking industries as well as the gig economy.

Founded in 2018, Argyle has raised over $77.6 million in capital and is backed by top investors, including Bain Capital Ventures, Bedrock, Checkr, F-Prime and SignalFire. Argyle's coverage of the U.S. workforce includes 99% of the Fortune 1000, is superior to the three largest credit bureaus and delivers hit rates higher than other data providers. Argyle has been recognized by Fintech Nexus as an Emerging Fintech Innovator, Forbes as one of America's Best Startup Employers, Tearsheet as the Best Alternative Data Product and Fintech Futures as a 2023 Fintech Startup of the Year. Argyle is also an authorized report supplier for Fannie Mae's Desktop Underwriter® validation service, a component of Day 1 Certainty®.

For more information on Argyle's industry-leading platform, please visit https://argyle.com/. To stay up to date on all Argyle news, sign up for our newsletter at https://argyle.com/blog/.

Related link: https://www.argyle.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Business

Strategic Benefits Advisors hires industry veteran Michael Yaschik as a senior benefits consultant

ATLANTA, Ga. -- Strategic Benefits Advisors (SBA) today announced the appointment of Michael Yaschik as a senior benefits consultant. In this role, Yaschik will counsel SBA's clients as they navigate both strategic benefits initiatives and everyday administration of their pension, 401(k) and health and welfare (H&W) plans.

Yaschik brings more than 25 years of pension consulting experience to SBA. He most recently served as a senior project manager at global professional services firm Aon (NYSE: AON), where he managed a team of customer service representatives, pension analysts and technical analysts as they helped new clients implement custom pension administration systems and provided ongoing pension administration services. Prior to his 24 years at Aon, Yaschik was a benefits analyst for Atlanta-based pulp and paper company Georgia-Pacific.

"At this time of sweeping transformation in the benefits landscape, employers need experienced advisors they can rely on for sound guidance and creative approaches for anticipating and solving problems," said SBA Founding Principal Mindy Zatto. "SBA is proud to welcome Michael Yaschik as a senior benefits consultant. His quarter-century of experience significantly augments a team we are already proud to call one of the most tenured in the business."

"The most rewarding part of my career has been building long-term trust with clients through the delivery of thoughtful guidance and attentive service," said Yaschik. "I'm excited to join a team that shares these values, and I am energized by the opportunity to forge new relationships and solve fresh challenges on behalf of SBA's clients."

Yaschik earned his bachelor's degree in risk management in 1997 from the University of Georgia's Terry College of Business, where he graduated cum laude. He earned his master's degree in business administration (MBA) in finance from Georgia State University's J. Mack Robinson College of Business in 2000.

About Strategic Benefits Advisors:

Strategic Benefits Advisors, Inc. (SBA) is an independent, full-service employee benefits consulting firm focused on creatively and effectively solving complex benefits issues for clients ranging from 1,000 to over 300,000 employees. Founded in 2002 by veteran consultants Mindy Zatto and Andy Adams, SBA provides practical consulting recommendations and expert implementation of solutions for all types of employee benefits programs, including retirement, health and welfare, financial wellness and employee recognition. With an average of over 25 years in the field, SBA's team of actuaries, consultants and systems specialists is among the most experienced in the industry.

For more information, visit https://www.sba-inc.com/.

Related link: https://www.sba-inc.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Awards and Honors, Business, Free News Articles, Software

Mortgage Capital Trading Named Best Place To Work 2023 By SDBJ

SAN DIEGO, Calif. -- Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT®), the de facto leader in innovative mortgage capital markets technology, announced that it has been named one of the Best Places to Work 2023 by the San Diego Business Journal (SDBJ) in the medium-sized company category (50 - 249 U.S. employees). This award is designed to identify, recognize, and honor the best places of employment in San Diego that benefit the county's economy, workforce, and local businesses.

MCT has been headquartered in downtown San Diego for nearly two decades, and during that time, the firm has evolved its "team member first" mindset - focusing on wellbeing and intentional work/life balance. Throughout the pandemic and segueing into the volatile mortgage market the entire industry is currently facing, MCT leadership has continued to prioritize team member needs.

"We are honored to be named the Best Place to Work in San Diego year after year," said Chad Campora, Head of Human Resources. "It's humbling to know that MCT team members feel respected, rewarded, and empowered to bring their best selves to work each day. The tenure among many of our key people is definitely a point of pride."

The SDBJ puts companies that applied for the award through an extensive evaluation process that includes a detailed analysis of company workplace policies and practices along with a comprehensive employee survey. The combined scores determine the top companies and the final rankings. The winning companies were honored at an awards ceremony hosted by the SDBJ in August.

More information on the SDBJ's Best Places to Work in San Diego program can be found at https://www.sdbj.com/.

About MCT:

For over two decades, MCT has been a leading source of innovation for the mortgage secondary market. Melding deep subject matter expertise with a passion for emerging technologies and clients, MCT is the de facto leader in innovative mortgage capital markets technology. From architecting modern best execution loan sales to launching the most successful and advanced marketplace for mortgage-related assets, lenders, investors, and network partners all benefit from MCT's stewardship. MCT's technology and know-how continues to revolutionize how mortgage assets are priced, locked, protected, valued, and exchanged - offering clients the tools to perform under any market condition.

For more information, visit https://mct-trading.com/ or call (619) 543-5111.

Related link: https://mct-trading.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Business, Economic Development, Free News Articles, Government, NonProfit and Charities, Regional Events

Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland Announces 12th Annual Regional Hiring Event

HUGHESVILLE, Md. -- The Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland (TCCSMD) is pleased to announce the date for the region's largest job fair, the 12th Annual "#TCCSMDGetHired" Hiring Event on August 23, 2023, at the Mechanicsville Volunteer Fire Department. New this year, the 1st Annual Family Resource Day will be featured, connecting families with important community resources. This joint event will connect Southern Maryland residents to career opportunities, assist local businesses in finding talent, and help meet the needs of our community on a holistic level.

"As the demand for a skilled workforce continues to negatively impact our local businesses, hiring events are critical," says Ruthy Davis, TCCSMD Director of Regional Workforce and Business Development. "We're thrilled to connect businesses with qualified jobseekers and offer attendees resources."

The hiring event will be held inside the Mechanicsville Volunteer Fire Department on August 23 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and will feature local Southern Maryland businesses seeking candidates for their current job openings. Standard business registration is $150 with sponsor packages available.

Businesses interested in attending can register on Regfox by visiting https://bit.ly/2023HiringEventBusinessRegistration.

The family resource event will be hosted outside the Mechanicsville Volunteer Fire Department in the spacious parking area. This event will feature representatives from various organizations throughout the tri-county area ready to meet residents with information about resources such as free job training, work-ready activities such as resume assistance, interview preparation, housing and food bank information, connections for justice involved citizens and more.

This is a family friendly event which will include free food, back-to-school backpacks, haircuts, children's games, moon bounce, face painting, and more. Community resource organizations will receive a complimentary table for the event by registering on the business registration link https://bit.ly/2023HiringEventBusinessRegistration.

Jobseekers will have the opportunity to speak with employers and gather employment information directly from hiring managers. Industries represented include healthcare, hospitality, retail, construction, government, IT/professional services, manufacturing, and more. Jobseekers may register on Eventbrite at https://bit.ly/2023_TCCSMDGetHired_HiringEvent where they will receive email updates on all participating businesses in advance of the event.

This is an exceptional opportunity for anyone seeking new or better employment to network and make connections. Jobseekers should review the list of hiring companies, visit their websites, and create a strategy for making a great first impression. Come dressed for success and bring plenty of resumes.

For jobseekers with limited transportation, Lifestyles of Southern Maryland will provide free rides from select county transit line locations. Registered jobseekers will receive detailed information via email. We thank Lifestyles of Southern Maryland for their partnership, along with the Rural Maryland Council and the American Rescue Plan Act whose funding is making this event possible.

To learn more about the 12th Annual "#TCCSMDGetHired" Hiring Event and Family Resource Day happening Wednesday, August 23, 2023 at the Mechanicsville VFD, 28165 Hills Club Rd, Mechanicsville, MD 20659, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., visit https://www.facebook.com/SouthernMarylandJobSource or call 301-645-8712.

For more information about the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland's Workforce Division visit https://southernmarylandjobsource.org.

For more information about the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland, a 501(c)(3) charity, visit https://www.tccsmd.org.

Related link: https://tccsmd.org/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Awards and Honors, Business, Free News Articles, Legal and Law

CDF Labor Law LLP Named to Bloomberg Law’s 3rd Annual Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Framework

IRVINE, Calif. -- CDF Labor Law LLP is pleased to announce that it has been named to Bloomberg Law's third annual Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Framework for the third consecutive year. CDF is one of 55 U.S.-based law firms that was recognized for its level of disclosure of diversity-related metrics and distinguished performance against six core pillars and more than 85 metrics: demographics, leadership and talent pipeline, recruitment and retention, business innovation and strategy, marketing, and diversity and inclusion in the community. The DEI Framework report is available for complimentary download at http://blawgo.com/UXoPcVq.

"We are honored to once again be included on the Bloomberg DEI Framework list. This acknowledgement is a testament to our firm's commitment to creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace," said Alison Tsao, Partner and Chair of CDF's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. "We remain committed to continuing our work to create a more inclusive law firm and provide meaningful opportunities for advancement to our employees and to the legal profession as a whole."

This acknowledgment of CDF's efforts in DEI comes on the heels of the firm's achievement of Diversity Lab's Mansfield Certification Plus status and inclusion in the Orange County Business Journal's Embracing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Special Report.

"DEI remains a critical factor for general counsel seeking to engage law firms that reflect their values, and we've brought our industry expertise and strength in data analytics to bear in assessing how law firms are performing in this critical arena," said Joe Breda, president, Bloomberg Law. "Through a demonstrated commitment to DEI, CDF is helping to move the legal industry forward and we're pleased to recognize their performance."

About CDF Labor Law LLP:

For close to 30 years, CDF Labor Law LLP has distinguished itself as one of the top labor, employment, and business immigration law firms in California, representing employers in single-plaintiff and class action lawsuits and advising employers on related legal compliance and risk avoidance. The firm has five offices throughout California - in Sacramento, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego.

For more information, visit: https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/ and find CDF on LinkedIn to learn more about how the firm protects California employers.

About Bloomberg Law:

Bloomberg Law combines the latest in legal technology with workflow tools, comprehensive primary and secondary sources, trusted news, expert analysis, and business intelligence. Our deep expertise and commitment to innovation provide a competitive edge to help improve attorney productivity and efficiency. For more information, visit Bloomberg Law at: https://pro.bloomberglaw.com/in-house-counsel/.

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/attorneys/bio/alison-tsao

https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/news/article/cdf-labor-law-llp-achieves-mansfield-certification-plus

https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/news/article/cdf-included-in-orange-county-business-journals-embracing-dei-special-report

https://www.linkedin.com/company/cdflaborlaw/

Related link: https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Alliances and Partnerships, Business, Free News Articles

GetHRready and HR4ALL forge partnership with three other Human Resources firms to deliver the best HR Support for businesses across America

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. -- GetHRready today announced a strategic partnership with HR4ALL, JustHRhandbooks, JustHRhotlines and JustHRaudits to ensure every business in America can the best in Human Resources support. Fast, efficient and economical solutions designed to protect every business and help them GetHRready.

"GetHRready has taken what it learned during its first six years in operations as HR4ALL, distilled the fundamental HR needs of U.S. businesses, understand that need must be met with exceptional precision, and established four organizations that deliver fast, efficient, and economical solutions while providing a backdrop of deep expertise for more sophisticated support as these organizations grow," asserts Mark Morgenfruh, the company's founder.

JustHRhandbooks, JustHRhotlines and JustHRaudits deliver exactly what their namesakes would indicate. Online checkout, secured credit card transaction, clearly-communicated timeline to completion make us fast and affordable for any business.

"With the exponential increase of regulatory enforcement and the proliferation of legislation related to all aspects of employment and Human Resources, every business leader understands they can no longer roll the dice and ignore HR Compliance," Morgenfruh says.

He adds, "But almost all of the noise business leaders get are 'doom and gloom' veiled threats that other HR firms spout in an attempt coax a dollar out of hard-working companies. Many companies do so begrudgingly, thinking this type of adversarial relationship with their HR service provider is normal, and getting 'HR compliant' is a one-and-done project."

LEARN MORE:

https://www.gethrready.com/

https://www.justhrhandbooks.com/

https://www.justhrhotlines.com/

https://www.justhraudits.com/

About GetHRready:

GetHRready, and its JustHR partners, create lasting relationships leaving clients stronger, smarter and better-equipped to handle their HR Compliance requirements. And when the work products from the JustHR deliverables uncover significant gaps and risks, the unrivaled and exceptional knowledge of HR4ALL is available to help mitigate that exposure.

Related link: https://www.gethrready.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Awards and Honors, Business, Free News Articles

ACES Quality Management named 2023 Best Places to Work in Financial Technology

DENVER, Colo. -- ACES Quality Management® (ACES), the leading provider of enterprise quality management and control software for the financial services industry, has been named one of the 2023 Best Places to Work in Financial Technology. The awards program was created in 2017 and is a project of Arizent and Best Companies Group.

This annual survey and awards program is designed to identify, recognize and honor the best employers in the financial technology industry. Companies recognized on this year's list operate in and serve companies and consumers in a wide range of financial services, including banking and mortgages, insurance, payments and financial advisory. The 2023 list included 50 companies and was published by Arizent brands American Banker, National Mortgage News, PaymentsSource, Financial Planning and Digital Insurance.

"At ACES, we pride ourselves on our customer-centric approach, and this people-first mentality naturally extends to our personnel," said CEO Trevor Gauthier. "Our dedicated staff of industry experts is the backbone of our industry-leading software, and without them, ACES would not be where it is today. The importance of employee feedback in the judging process for this designation makes this honor especially gratifying."

Companies from across the United States entered a two-part survey process to determine Arizent's Best Places to Work in Financial Technology. The first part consisted of evaluating each nominated company's workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics. The second part consisted of an employee survey to measure the employee experience. The combined scores determined the top companies and the final ranking. Best Companies Group managed the overall registration and survey process, analyzed the data and determined the final ranking.

"Some of the most intriguing technology advances in financial services are developed within fintech firms that partner or compete with traditional banks," said Penny Crosman, executive editor of technology at American Banker. "Best Places to Work in Financial Technology provides a closer look at some of these companies and the culture and benefits that help them attract top talent."

For more information on Arizent's Best Places to Work in Financial Technology program, including full eligibility criteria, visit www.BestPlacestoWorkFinTech.com or write to penny.crosman@arizent.com.

About ACES Quality Management:

ACES Quality Management is the leading provider of enterprise quality management and control software for the financial services industry. The nation's most prominent lenders, servicers and financial institutions rely on ACES Quality Management & Control® software to improve audit throughput and quality while controlling costs, including:

* 60% of the top 50 independent mortgage lenders;

* 8 of the top 10 loan servicers;

* 11 of the top 30 retail banks; and

* 3 of the top 5 credit unions in the United States.

Unlike other quality control platforms, only ACES delivers Flexible Audit Technology, which gives independent mortgage lenders and financial institutions the ability to easily manage and customize ACES to meet their business needs without having to rely on IT or other outside resources. Using a customer-centric approach, ACES clients get responsive support and access to our experts to maximize their investment. For more information, visit www.acesquality.com or call 1-800-858-1598.

Related link: https://www.acesquality.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022