Montarious Usher

Director of HR Effectiveness
Duracell

My name is Montarious Usher, and I am the Director of HR Effectiveness at Duracell. I hold a Doctoral degree in Business Psychology, specializing in Industrial Organizational Psychology, from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Washington DC. I am a proud member of the Society for Industrial Organizational Psychology (SIOP). 

My journey into I/O Psychology was unorthodox. My career began in the United States Navy, and after over a decade of service, I transitioned into the government sector as a federal contractor in acquisition and program management. It was during this time that I first noticed the significant impact of workplace dynamics on employee well-being and performance, which sparked my interest in I/O Psychology. I witnessed numerous colleagues succumb to burnout or resign abruptly, often to the surprise of their managers. Initially, I speculated that they were seeking higher pay or better opportunities. Over time, however, it became clear that the real issue was not monetary. These individuals left because they felt unsupported by their leadership and were in an environment where voicing frustrations could lead to negative consequences. 

This revelation was eye-opening—it wasn't just about the paycheck. Job satisfaction and engagement are also driven by leadership support, resource availability, and psychological safety. It was evident that a significant gap existed between what employees needed and what their leaders assumed they needed, leading to a disconnect in the employee experience. This realization solidified my decision to pursue further education in I/O Psychology. 

My mission was straightforward—to enhance the workplace experience for all by informing organizations and their leaders about the intricate needs of their employees. 

I have since initiated and launched various global HR programs aimed at enriching the employee experience. From establishing employee listening initiatives that provide managers with insights to drive engagement, to conducting focus groups that gauge sentiment toward new company programs—my role is multifaceted. For example, I implemented a series of assessments that helped managers make more objective and equitable decisions in performance evaluations. I've also conducted comprehensive job analyses across various departments, identifying essential leadership skills for success and enabling targeted training programs that improved employee performance. Additionally, I developed a global 360 feedback program that fostered a culture of continuous feedback, 

Moreover, I have redefined interview processes, incorporating evidence-based practices improve quality of hires. I have also spearheaded diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts with the goal to create a more inclusive company culture as reflected in our annual employee satisfaction and engagement surveys. 

The role of an I/O Psychologist is a fulfilling one, knowing that every day, I have the chance to positively influence how employees experience their work brings me immense satisfaction. As workplaces continue to evolve, the importance of understanding and addressing the complex needs of employees has never been greater. I am committed to continuing my work in this field, leveraging the power of I/O Psychology to create better, more engaging, and more equitable workplaces for all.