Audrey Williams-Lee

Audrey Williams-Lee assumed the role of Vice President, Corporate Human Resources and Global Philanthropy with Hyatt Hotels Corporation in 2017. In this role, she serves as the HR leader and advisor for C-suite executives and their leadership teams, leading the development and implementation of workforce and talent strategies. She also leads Hyatt’s community engagement and social impact efforts, and directs the company’s philanthropy strategy and approach to charitable giving.

Prior to joining Hyatt, Ms. Williams-Lee held the position of Global Chief Human Resources Officer for Opportunity International, a global nonprofit focused on providing innovative financial solutions to empower people, create small businesses and build vibrant communities.

Previously, Ms. Williams-Lee held the positions of VP, Human Resources – Americas, and VP, Leadership, Talent & Organization Effectiveness at W.W. Grainger, Inc. In those roles she partnered with the senior leadership teams to create a diverse pipeline of talent, build capabilities and evolve the culture. She also held senior talent management roles at McDonald’s, along with several human resources generalist and COE roles with Unilever.

Ms. Williams-Lee graduated from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois with a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering and holds a master’s degree in Organizational Development from Benedictine University in Lisle, Illinois. She is an alumni of the Leading Women Executives Program.

Ms. Williams-Lee serves on the board of Youth Guidance in Chicago, Illinois. She also serves on the board of Hephzibah Children’s Association and on Oak Park & River Forest High School’s Community Council, both in Oak Park, Illinois.