Mai Ton
HR Consultant; Author; Thought Leader on the Future of Work; Change Agent
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About
As an HR consultant and change agent, I am committed to helping shape a more equitable and sustainable workplace. Over the course of my career in tech startups, I’ve guided leaders and teams through intense growth, mergers, and restructurings, with a special focus on building inclusive cultures and forward-thinking HR practices. Equity in startups isn’t just a perk; it’s a powerful lever for systemic change. This belief guides my work at EMP HR Consulting and underscores my vision for a future where diverse founders and leaders—especially women and underrepresented groups—have the opportunity to unlock generational wealth. In my book, Come Into My Office, I offer a candid, behind-the-scenes look at life in Silicon Valley from an HR leader’s perspective, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of building people-first cultures in high-growth environments. As today’s tech landscape evolves and the initial “magic” of Silicon Valley fades, I remain inspired by the potential to create workplaces where equity is fundamental, not incidental, and where leaders can drive real, lasting impact.
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What I Offer
With a focus on strategic HR transformation, I provide consulting services that empower leaders to create equitable, people-centered workplaces. My work enables organizations to navigate change confidently, fostering environments where both employees and business objectives can thrive.
Advisory Services
Strategic, personalized guidance for HR transformations aligned with resilience, equity, and growth.
Leadership and Culture Transformation
Expertise in fostering high-performing, inclusive cultures and values-driven leadership.
Change Management Program
Full-cycle support for navigating M&As, IPOs, and organizational changes with a human-centered approach.
Future of Work Consulting
Progressive strategies for implementing inclusive policies that reflect today’s workplace values.
Ask Me About
Executive HR Advisory
Leadership and Culture Transformation
M&A and IPO Readiness
Future of Work Strategy Development
Wisdom at Work
Notable Roles
Founder & CEO, EMP HR Consulting
Founded EMP HR Consulting to empower tech startup leaders with the insights and strategies to build equitable, forward-thinking workplaces. My consulting focuses on creating long-term value through sustainable HR practices and inclusive leadership.
Chief People Officer, Fabric
Led a 10-member HR team to establish new standards in hiring, performance management, and compensation. Oversaw complex change management efforts that enhanced operational efficiency and strengthened team cohesion.
VP of People Operations & Culture, HelloSign
Guided HR and cultural initiatives through rapid growth and an M&A by Dropbox, achieving 35% headcount growth with minimal attrition and establishing foundational HR systems for sustainable expansion.
Areas of Expertise
Change Leadership with Purpose
I guide organizations through high-stakes transitions—IPOs, M&As, and restructuring—with a focus on aligning strategic goals with cultural and people-centered outcomes, ensuring clarity and confidence during change.
Inclusive Leadership and Culture Building
My experience as one of the few women and minorities in executive roles has shaped my commitment to fostering workplaces that empower diverse voices and create a sense of belonging, setting a new standard for leadership and inclusivity.
Visionary for the Future of Work
Committed to reimagining modern work practices, I help companies implement progressive policies, from flexible work arrangements to equity-centered initiatives, positioning them to attract and retain top talent in an evolving market.
Key Achievements
M&A and IPO Strategy and Success
Integral to several M&A transactions and one IPO, where I emphasized transparent, people-centered communication to maintain morale and focus during high-stakes transitions.
Global Expansion and Cultural Alignment
Led HR strategies across five regions, building a unified, culturally aware framework that reinforced organizational goals while honoring diverse perspectives.
Award-Winning Workplace and Culture Programs
Recognized for developing high-performing, inclusive cultures with programs that inspire, engage, and retain talent, helping organizations achieve their best possible outcomes.
Wisdom is...applied knowledge.
Summary of Skills
