- HR Operations Lead and Leaves Specialist
WashU Human Resources
Brandie Davis, MHRM, an HR operations lead and leaves specialist, has proudly served WashU since 2015.
In her role, Davis is motivated by the opportunity to lead her teammates and colleagues across WashU who may need a leave of absence. Her team supports all University populations and leave policies, partnering closely with the Benefits and Accessibility teams to ensure every employee’s leave needs are met.
Davis was fortunate to play a part in introducing the included Short-Term Medical Disability and Caregiver Leave in 2019. This additional benefit gave her firsthand experience to how initiatives of this magnitude positively impact staff and those who support them. As she and the team adapted to a new third-party vendor and system, Davis learned how to navigate evolving circumstances surrounding leaves—shaped by new legislation, an ever-changing economy and the needs of our employees.
Davis’ goal is to ensure that managers—whether new to WashU or seasoned leaders—know they have a team of advocates ready to guide them.
I also want employees to feel confident that when they begin a leave or have questions about pay, our team will do everything possible to make the process smooth so they can focus on rest and recovery.
Brandie Davis, HR operations lead and leaves specialist
This work holds personal meaning for Davis. When Caregiver Leave was introduced, she was able to use it to care for her mom. Having that support allowed her to focus on her well-being without worrying about paid time off. It was a tremendous blessing for her and her family, and it deepened her passion for helping others through similar circumstances.
“If I can reassure someone, share knowledge through training or simply make the process easier, it makes my job deeply rewarding,” Davis said.
Over the years, this career path has also allowed Davis to build strong partnerships across WashU. It has reinforced a core belief of hers: regardless of title or tenure, everyone deserves to feel supported.
Outside of work, Davis enjoys spending time with her friends and family, watching true crime or sitcoms, including her two dogs, Winston and Juice. She also finds joy quoting movies and singing incorrect song lyrics.