Robert Lapota
Leadership is a potent combination of strategy and character. But if you must be without one, be without the strategy.Norman Schwarzkopf
“Fun” is core to Rob’s style of instruction. Can learning about COBRA be fun? Yes, Rob can make it fun. Can learning about FMLA be fun? Yes, Rob makes that fun, too! Rob is driven by a passion for HR leaders to be engaged as strategic partners in their organizations, solving business problems through human resources solutions and showing bottom-line impact of HR initiatives.
Expertise
Drawing on over 30 years of experience in HR and executive HR management, Rob helps employers find workable solutions to human resource issues. His career includes hands-on management and leadership responsibilities in all facets of human resources as well as experience developing ISO, QS 9000, and Malcom Baldrige National Quality Award compliant HR systems, metrics, and practices. He is certified as a SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP).
Key Accomplishments
- Recognized as one of the top knowledge experts on the FMLA.
- Answered over 15,000 member inquires on the MRA HR Hotline.
- Noted, regularly scheduled speaker on HR and leadership topics at Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and other business conferences throughout the United States.
- Known for an engaging, fun presentation style. A recent participant noted, “Thank you for talking with us and not to us.”
Education
Rob holds a bachelor of business administration-human resources and a master’s degree in industrial and labor relations from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He has also participated in the HR Executive Management program of the University of Michigan and Achieve Global’s Certified Trainer program.
Professional and Community Activities
Rob has instructed human resources management and leadership for a local community college and serves the community through his church in West Bend, Wisconsin.