Getting to know Jose Velez…

Jose Velez, Director of Operations is known for his charisma and innovative approach at HLZAE. With over 20 years of professional experience, Jose assists with developing, implementing, and optimizing HLZAE systems, including processes, resources, and department personnel. Jose is responsible for working on mid to long-term projects, assisting with onboarding, and reviewing financial reports for all departments. Jose also serves as a mentor and takes pleasure in collaborating with his team by helping them improve their skills and apply them to project-specific areas. He approaches his role in Operations with a focus on maximizing efficiencies, while anticipating future growth.

No two days are ever the same, which is something Jose can always appreciate. Jose’s unique role is shaped by a multitude of elements, encompassing cross-functional involvement, end-to-end accountability, efficiency and productivity, problem-solving and troubleshooting. Each day is an opportunity to engage in continuous improvement, while balancing immediate and future goals.

Jose’s day-to-day responsibilities include balancing cost-effectiveness with high-quality standards, utilizing data for performance measurement and trend identification. Crucial for organizational success, his role optimizes processes, secures streamlined operations, and drives the achievement of short-term and long-term objectives for both the business and the staff.

With a rich history incorporating both Finance and Healthcare, Jose seamlessly transitioned into the world of People and Operations Management. His diverse background reflects a passion for learning, as he delved into architecture and restoration, combining his curiosity with a keen interest in all facets of a business. In his role, Jose revels in the behind the scenes, collaborating with Finance, HR, IT, Admin, and more to construct a foundation for success. His autonomy within a team structure provides the ideal landscape for personal and professional growth, fostering a dynamic environment where his efforts directly influence the prosperity of the business.

For Jose, the magic lies in witnessing colleagues flourish, a driving force that motivates him daily. Balancing business and technical goals can be challenging, yet he navigates this terrain adeptly, recognizing the importance of tailored communication to harmonize diverse perspectives. Jose’s belief in understanding the intricate web of the business guides him toward repeatable, sustainable, and amicable solutions that elevate both the team and the company.

In the realm of HLZAE projects, Jose’s standout venture was orchestrating a revival of the onboarding process for new hires. During the pandemic era of remote work, where the once-famed interpersonal touch was lost, he endeavored to bring warmth back into the onboarding experience. Jose collaborated with studios to integrate employees into the HLZAE technical landscape, foster immediate connections within the company, and equip newcomers with the essential tools for a disruption-free career launch. The successful overhaul garnered praise from new hires, who continue to commend it as one of the best onboarding processes they’ve encountered.

When Jose isn’t on the job, you can find him enjoying golf, great food and drinks. Mornings are dedicated to the gym, where the addictive rush of adrenaline and endorphins takes center stage. An aficionado of random knowledge, he indulges in articles on obscure topics that come in handy during trivia game shows.

In a 12-month span, Jose conquered the NYC marathon and won first place in the Masters division at a powerlifting competition. A poker enthusiast, his presence is felt at Las Vegas tournament tables playing Texas Hold’em. As a certified adrenaline junkie, Jose has gone skydiving, bungee jumping, and ziplined his way through adventures. Beyond the daredevil exploits, he cherishes family moments with his charismatic 6-year-old daughter, Harper. As a sports enthusiast, Jose pledges allegiance to the NY Yankees, NY Rangers, and the Dallas Cowboys.