HR Working Group

Description

HR Working Group

Welcome to our HR Working Group—a valuable quarterly gathering designed to support and strengthen our local business community. This group serves as a trusted resource where HR professionals can come together to review real-world case studies, share insights, and learn from one another’s experiences. It’s also a space to build meaningful connections through networking, explore mentorship opportunities, and get involved in volunteer efforts that make a difference.

We’re especially fortunate that this group is led by two of our community’s top HR professionals—Josh Hughes,  Attorney at Ogletree Deakins, and Ted Hahn, Owner of HR Outfitters—who will guide discussions and bring valuable expertise to each session.

Whether you're looking to grow professionally or give back, this group offers something for everyone in the HR field.

Who should attend:

• New HR professionals
• Seasoned HR professionals
• Anyone in HR

Josh Hughes
Of Counsel | Ogletree Deakins

Josh Hughes brings over two decades of experience helping employers and educational institutions navigate complex legal and HR challenges. Now serving as Of Counsel at Ogletree Deakins in Columbus, Josh offers practical, real-world legal insight shaped by his years as General Counsel for Ashland University and leadership within MedCentral (OhioHealth) and higher education HR departments.

His expertise spans employment law, workplace investigations, disability access, wage and hour compliance, and Title IX issues. Known for his collaborative approach and deep understanding of organizational dynamics, Josh equips employers with strategies that support both compliance and culture. 

He holds a J.D., cum laude, from Michigan State University and a B.S.S. from Ohio University, and is licensed to practice in Ohio, Michigan, U.S. District Court, Northern and Southern Districts of Ohio. When he’s not advising clients or speaking at conferences, you’ll find him traveling, cheering on his favorite teams, or competing in a lively game of pickleball.


Ted Hahn
Owner, HR Outfitters
 

Ted received a Master’s degree in Labor Policy Studies and Human Resources Management from Empire State College. In addition, he is a SHRM certified professional, SHRM certified people manager and holds his OSHA- 30 hour.   Some major projects he has contributed to include contract negotiations, CBA interpretation and compliance for both the company and members, HRIS implementations, safety plan development and implementation, employee orientations/training design and implementation, SDS development and publishing, hiring plan designs, and internal consulting and auditing.

Ted started HR Outfitters to allow the human resource function to remain key contributors in organizations. HR may be faced with recruiting needs, employee relations issues, supervisor assistance or management issues. HR Outfitters helps HR professionals to apply best practices to areas including auditing, developing comprehensive job descriptions or updating policies and handbooks to name a few.