9:00 - 9:45 am Human Capital as a Value Driver

At this year’s Upper Midwest Capital Connection, join us for a compelling panel on the intersection of private equity and people strategy.

Discover how high-performing cultures aren’t just a byproduct of success—they’re a catalyst for it. Our panelists will dive into how intentional investment in leadership, culture, and employee well-being can directly impact growth and enterprise value.

Key topics include:
• Leadership & Talent Development – How private equity can drive value through leadership training, succession planning, and continuous upskilling.
• Cultural Integration & Employee Engagement – The role of cultural due diligence, retention strategies, and purpose-driven workplaces in building strong, high-performing teams.
• People-Centered Performance Strategies – Using data, equity incentives, and well-being initiatives to align employee success with company growth.

Don’t miss this conversation on how putting people first can be one of the smartest investments you make.

Panelists:

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Leah Berend, Managing Partner of Marrin Investment Partners
Leah Berend is the Managing Partner of Marrin Investment Partners, a private equity firm focused on building financial and cultural value through strategic investments in human capital. With over $500 million in transaction experience, and as a CPA with master's degrees in Accountancy and Organizational Leadership, she brings a hands-on, people-first approach to driving growth. Leah also serves as the incoming President of the ACG Minnesota Chapter, where she is committed to advancing collaboration and innovation in the private capital community.

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Janis Hardie, Chief Human Resources Officer, MMT Ambulance
Janis Hardie is the Chief Human Resources Officer at MMT Ambulance, a private equity-backed company, where she leads talent acquisition, employee engagement, and organizational development. She brings deep HR leadership experience from companies like Target, Agiliti, and American Public Education, Inc. Throughout her career, Janis has successfully supported growth, navigated talent shortages, and led M&A integrations and business transformations. She is known for fostering a strong “one team” mindset and promoting a learning culture. Janis believes organizations thrive when business and people strategies are fully aligned.

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Yvonne Kinney, PhD, Principal, Business Psychologist, Consulting Solutions
Dr. Kinney is an award-winning expert in executive leadership development, organizational change, and team performance, helping hundreds of leaders—from Fortune 100 companies to small businesses—realize untapped potential. With over 20 years of experience in Workplace Psychology, she uses a no-nonsense, results-driven approach to enhance performance and align leadership vision with strategy and action. Known for helping leaders grow through empathy and self-discovery, she works across diverse industries including government, healthcare, manufacturing, and family-owned businesses. Dr. Kinney holds a PhD in Organizational Consulting/Business Psychology and a Master’s in Leadership, and she teaches leadership at the University of Minnesota. She is a certified executive coach and accredited in numerous assessment tools and methodologies. Her extensive qualifications and hands-on expertise make her a sought-after advisor for leadership and organizational transformation.
 

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Cyndi Mergele, Senior Director, Transaction Advisory Services, RSM US LLP 
Cyndi is a seasoned human resources professional who supports private equity and strategic buyers with HR due diligence and post-close integration planning. She brings a broad range of HR expertise to clients across industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, energy, tech, construction, nonprofit, retail, and government contracting. Her work ensures smooth transitions and strategic alignment during mergers and acquisitions. Cyndi holds a Bachelor of Arts from Texas A&M University and maintains senior-level certifications from both the Human Resource Certification Institute (SPHR) and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM-SCP).

 

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Kristin Nordling, Founder and President, Lakeside HR Group
Kristin Nordling is the Founder and President of Lakeside HR Group, a Minnesota-based firm specializing in recruiting and HR consulting for small to midsize businesses. With over 25 years in senior HR leadership roles, including CHRO positions, she has led HR due diligence and integration efforts for multiple acquisitions within private equity-backed companies. Since founding Lakeside in 2021, Kristin has built a team of seasoned professionals delivering personalized, strategic HR and recruiting solutions nationwide. Recognized as a 2025 Notable Leader in Recruitment & Talent by Twin Cities Business, she is known for aligning people strategies with business goals to drive growth and value. 

Sponsored by: 

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