About Ascend
We’re passionate about helping small to midsize companies meet their HR needs. Whether your business doesn’t have a dedicated HR team or your current team needs occasional support, Ascend is here to provide strategic guidance and hands-on solutions to keep your business running smoothly and growing successfully.
Behind Ascend
Jana Sleigh
With 17 years of HR experience, I’ve worked across various industries, including retail, construction, DOD, medical devices, and healthcare. My background also includes 15 years in the corporate world, along with military experience as a flight medic in the Air Force Reserves. This diverse experience allows me to understand and address the unique needs of different businesses, no matter their size or industry.
I graduated with a degree in Economics, originally planning to become an investment banker. However, when the financial job market dried up, I found my way into HR—and I’ve never looked back. I’m fascinated by the dynamics of people and leadership, and how great leaders inspire teams to achieve success, while others struggle to make an impact. I bring this passion and insight to every project, helping businesses strengthen their HR capabilities and build thriving workplaces.
“Great teams are built on trust, fueled by communication, and driven by shared goals. HR is the bridge that turns individuals into a collective force for growth.”
Contact us.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What types of businesses do you work with?
We work with businesses across various industries, including startups, mid-sized companies, and large organizations. Our expertise is adaptable to industries such as technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and more, with a focus on leadership development, HR strategy, and organizational change.
How do I know if my HR processes need auditing?
An HR audit is recommended if your business has grown rapidly, undergone significant change, or if you’re unsure whether your current practices comply with labor laws and regulations. An audit can reveal gaps in compliance, inefficiencies, and areas where processes could be improved to better support your business.
What is change management, and how can it help my business?
Change management is the process of guiding employees and leaders through organizational changes to minimize disruption and maximize positive outcomes. It helps businesses implement new processes, structures, or cultures in a way that employees embrace, leading to smoother transitions and higher productivity.
What can I expect from a Strategic HR Planning session?
Our strategic HR planning sessions are tailored to your business's specific needs. We analyze your current HR processes, identify areas for improvement, and develop a plan to align your HR strategy with your company’s overall goals. You can expect actionable insights and a clear roadmap to success.
How often should harassment training be conducted?
Harassment training should be conducted regularly, typically on an annual basis. In some industries and regions, it’s required by law. Our training programs can be tailored to your needs and delivered in a way that keeps your employees engaged and informed.
Can I get help with a single service, or do I have to sign up for a full package?
We offer flexibility depending on your needs. Whether you need assistance with a specific service, such as leadership training or compliance auditing, or a full HR overhaul, we can create a plan tailored to your business.