Get to know: LESLIE HENSLEY

Co-Founder & People Lead

Leslie Hensley (she/her) is a Co-Founder and People Leader at HENSLEE, based in Oakland, CA, occupying the Confederate Villages of Lisjan, and Muwekma Ohlone land.

Leslie is a seasoned People Operations leader turned Entrepreneur, with 17+ years of experience crafting strategic people programs for industry-leading companies. She co-founded HENSLEE on the belief that when people feel valued, understood, and fulfilled, the entire organization benefits. Leslie thrives on partnering with clients to design People Operation programs that unlock their full potential through human-centered people practices.

How do you like to start your day?  Do you have a morning routine or ritual?

I pull a tarot card and journal for 10 mins each morning. This practice helps ground me into my day and inspires me to view the world with a fresh perspective.

What’s the most inspiring part of your job?

Sharing information and being part of a process where I get to see people grow and learn. I love that moment when you can see in someone’s eyes that they are grasping something new. Knowledge is power! I believe the more transparent and vulnerable we can be with each other the more space we have to collaborate on what we are creating/building.

What is your favorite season?

Spring! I love watching the world bloom again after taking a restful winter break. Spring feels like creativity and expansion. Growth and connection!