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Employee Spotlight: Michelle Fernandez

Tara Spears

December 5, 2024

Meet Michelle Fernandez, and learn more about her in our Audicus Employee Spotlight! Michelle is a Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist on the Recruiting Team!

Q: What is your role at Audicus, and how did your career path lead you here?
A: I’m a Senior Talent Acquisition Associate at Audicus. My career journey has been quite dynamic. I began as an English teacher right out of college, and eventually built a program as a preschool teacher. While I loved the classroom environment and leadership, I realized there wasn’t enough systemic support for teachers, so I took some time to reflect on what I truly wanted to do.

That self-discovery led me to the fintech world, where I worked as an Executive Assistant supporting the C-suite. That role sharpened my coordination and communication skills, and I found myself enjoying candidate interactions as part of welcoming them to the office. I became close with the recruiting team and eventually transitioned into a recruiting coordinator role.

Over time, I moved into full-cycle recruiting, which became my passion. After experiencing layoffs, I became more selective about my next opportunity. When Audicus reached out, I immediately connected with its mission and the incredible people. It’s incredibly fulfilling to work here, knowing we’re changing lives and making a meaningful impact.

Q: What do you do in your current role?
A: My role covers a wide range of responsibilities, from filling roles across the organization—everything from clinical positions to head-of-department roles—to improving our documentation and processes.

I also enjoy leading initiatives like this Employee Spotlight, a series I created to help humanize our organization and foster connections. Additionally, I’m on the CSR and Culture Committee, planning events like our partnership with New Women New Yorkers. I see myself as a candidate advocate, helping create a positive hiring experience while supporting HR and our employees internally.

Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in a career in recruiting or talent acquisition?
A: Learn to move quickly and stay organized—it’s key in this field. Starting as a coordinator, perhaps at an agency, is a great way to get your foot in the door. Get comfortable with platforms like LinkedIn and focus on building a strong network.

Say yes to mentorship opportunities and shadowing experienced recruiters. Becoming a recruiter doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s okay not to know everything about every role—just make sure to do your research.

Q: What do you find most rewarding about working in Talent Acquisition?
A: I love being part of someone’s good news, whether it’s celebrating a new step in their career or helping them through a challenging time like recovering from a layoff. Interviewing can be tough, so creating a great candidate experience is something I take pride in.

Q: What’s your favorite memory at Audicus so far?
A: A couple of moments stand out. One was shortly after I started, when we had a Halloween party. It was so fun to see everyone in costumes and connect with both remote and in-person colleagues.

Another memorable experience was volunteering with New Women New Yorkers, a nonprofit that helps women entering the U.S. workforce. We helped them develop interview skills and build professional connections—it was an incredibly meaningful day.

Q: How would you describe the culture at Audicus?
A: Working at Audicus feels like getting a warm hug every day. The culture is incredibly supportive and transparent. From day one, I knew I was in the right place, especially seeing the feedback from our customers and knowing I play a part in growing the teams that support them. Everyone here is kind, bright, and open, and I appreciate how much access we have to understand how the organization is run.

Q: What are some of your favorite books, movies, or shows?
A:
Movies: The Fellowship of the Ring.
Books: I’m a huge fan of Sarah J. Maas’s works, especially A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) and Throne of Glass. I also love A Tribute of Fire by Sariah Wilson.
Shows: The Witcher, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and Outlander.

Q: What are your hobbies or passions outside of work?
A: I’m a voracious reader and even review Advanced Reader Copies (ARCs) of books. I also love cooking—short ribs, fish tacos, and homemade bread are my specialties—and trying new restaurants.

My fiance and I are very big gamers (PC mostly); my favorites include World of Warcraft (Retail) and classic Old School Runescape which started my love of video games. I also enjoy trying out new restaurants, exploring and going on mini adventures with my two Great Pyrenees, Mira and Bucky, and spending time with my cats, Indy and Bodi.

Q: Can you share a fun fact about yourself?
A: When I was five or six, my brother and I appeared on the CBS Morning Show to review holiday toys! Also, I sing—I’m a soprano and was a triple threat in singing, acting, and dancing and performed at the Bergdorf Center in Maplewood. I love show tunes, especially from Phantom of the Opera, Mamma Mia, and Wicked!

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