The game has changed for attracting and keeping top talent. Korn Ferry’s Workforce 2025 report, surveying over 15,000 professionals, paints a clear picture: small businesses face unprecedented pressures from evolving employee expectations, the rise of AI, and widening generational divides. Ignoring these shifts is no longer an option. Here are six key areas where small
Small Business Talent in 2025: 6 Shifts You Can’t Ignore Read More »
Gen Z—those born between 1997 and 2012—are no longer just interns or junior hires. They’ve officially overtaken Baby Boomers in the workforce, and a new wave of graduates is arriving this spring. If you’re a small business owner or manager struggling to “click” with younger employees, it’s not because they’re lazy, entitled, or disengaged. It’s
Coaching, Not Commanding: How Small Business Leaders Can Motivate Gen Z Employees Read More »
In today’s competitive business environment, talent is your biggest asset—and your biggest risk. In a recent Small Business Boot Camp session hosted by the Arizona Commerce Authority, Clint Parry, Focus HR’s Business Development Manager, delivered a timely and insightful presentation: “Optimize HR: Your Key to Secure Top Talent & Growth.” The session unpacked the most
Imagine a workplace where energy is high, collaboration flows effortlessly, and challenges are met with united strength. Now, contrast that with the all-too-common scenario: a team trudging through tasks, morale dipping with every demanding email, and talent quietly slipping out the door. The difference between these two realities isn’t just strategy or systems—it’s the human
How to Foster Resonant Leadership—and Why It Matters More Than Ever Read More »
It’s a scenario no business owner wants to think about—a trusted employee slowly siphoning money from the company, manipulating records, and covering their tracks for years. But these aren’t just rare, sensationalized stories. They happen far more often than you might expect, and small businesses are the most vulnerable. What do all these cases have
As a nonprofit leader, you’re no stranger to the challenges of securing funding. You’ve weathered tight budgets, grant cycles, and shifting priorities before. But the recent wave of federal funding cuts, triggered by President Trump’s Executive Order: Reevaluating and Realigning United States, represents a new level of uncertainty. This isn’t just a bump in the
Navigating the Tightrope: Securing Your Nonprofit’s Future Amidst Federal Funding Freeze Read More »
As of 2025, over three-quarters (77%) of businesses are already using artificial intelligence (AI) or exploring its various potential use cases. And despite the fact that robust AI tools are often associated with major corporations, the reality is that any business can benefit from the technology. The question, then, is a matter of knowing how
AI Use In the Workplace: Practical Advice for Small Businesses Read More »
As the year draws to a close, it’s essential for small business owners to ensure their human resources (HR) processes are primed for 2025. Proper year-end HR management sets the stage for a successful new year and keeps your business compliant. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you make this important transition: Verify Employee Information
Year-End HR Checklist: Essential Steps for Small Business Success Read More »
When you think of HR, what comes to mind? Hiring, onboarding, payroll, maybe even compliance. But what about the hidden costs of HR? The ones that quietly chip away at your bottom line without you even realizing it. For small business owners, these hidden HR costs can be a major obstacle to growth. Factors like
Are Hidden HR Costs Killing Your Profits? Here’s How to Find Out (and Fix It) Read More »
We often hear about the importance of employee engagement, but its true impact on a business is often underestimated. While low engagement might seem like a minor issue, its consequences can be severe, leading to significant financial losses and operational challenges. Consider these staggering statistics: But the costs don’t stop there. High turnover rates, a
The ROI of Engagement: How to Maximize Your Investment in Your Workforce Read More »
As a small business owner, you know that payroll is one of your largest expenses. You also know that you are required to withhold and pay payroll taxes, but this can be challenging if you’re not sure what to withhold and what portion you must pay. Failing to properly process your payroll taxes can lead
Avoid Liabilities: Perfect Your Understanding of Payroll Tax Withholding Read More »
Are you up to speed on the latest updates to Form I-9 and the E-Verify platform? These essential documents and systems play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with immigration laws and verifying employee eligibility to work in the United States. With that in mind, the Focus HR team has created this rundown of recent
Navigating the Latest Form I-9 and E-Verify Updates for 2024 Read More »
Human Resources Manager
Nitasha joined the Focus HR team in 2016, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge in business and HR Law. She graduated from the Eller College of Management with a business degree and just recently earned a Master’s Degree in Law with a concentration in Human Resources from Regent University. She also has her SPHR and insurance licenses.
She currently serves as a Human Resource Manager at Focus, working directly with clients and employees to navigate any human resource issues they may face.
In her free time, Nitasha loves traveling, hiking, and spending time with her two Goldendoodles.
Payroll Manager
Krista joined the FocusHR team in July 2020 after moving from Pennsylvania to Arizona. She graduated from California University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Tourism Studies, which landed her a job at one of the top hotel brands, where she started her payroll career. She also has her CPP certification.
As Payroll Manager, Krista keeps her team of payroll specialists up-to-date on all payroll regulations and is always ready to jump in and process payrolls with her team.
In her spare time, she takes trips with her family, roots for the Steelers, or watches Harry Potter.
Benefits Account Executive
Sandy Garcia has been in the business of employee benefits for more than three decades. Everywhere she goes she runs into people she knows, and they go out of their way to stop and say hello.
Sandy’s worked hard to build a stellar reputation. She’s proactive, instead of reactive and she’s dedicated to doing her job right, the first time. Sandy will amaze you with her benefits knowledge but also her computer and crafting skills. If you give Sandy a glue gun, be prepared for a genuine masterpiece.
Sandy is a mother of three, a grandmother, and a parent to fur babies, Karma and Buster. Their names should tell you, she’s seen a thing or two.
Workers Compensation Manager
Brenda joined the Focus HR team in 2022, bringing with her an extensive background in audit, compliance and profit recovery. As Workers Compensation Manager, she advocates on our clients’ behalf to ensure they get the best coverage for the lowest premium and ensure their workers’ compensation claims and administration are handled with ease.
She provides excellent client service and satisfaction, as well as strong mentorship and leadership skills within the Focus HR team. Being goal-oriented, Brenda strives to provide impeccable support and empowering success to all. Her analytical skillset allows for time and cost efficiency with proven results.
When not working, Brenda enjoys watching U of A sports, tending to her koi fish & garden and smothering her family. She loves all things Disney, Marvel and Star Wars. Brenda is an avid reader and cinephile; she loves the experience of a good story.
MBA, SHRM-SCP, Business Development Manager
Clint Parry has a passion for business growth and personal development. In his current role as Business Development Manager for Focus HR, he helps small business owners accelerate their growth through HR outsourcing.
Clint began his career at Xerox Corporation in Tucson, where he helped build Xerox’s document outsourcing practice. Following his time at Xerox, he launched his own business coaching firm, ActionCOACH, where he coached and advised over 300 business owners in Southern Arizona.
Most recently, Clint led strategy and client development for Lapin International, a strategy and leadership consulting firm focused on building purpose-driven companies and leaders in the Fortune 1000 space.
Clint is a past columnist for Inside Tucson Business and the Arizona Daily Star. He was recognized as one of Tucson’s 40 under 40 and holds a Business Degree from BYU and an MBA from the University of Arizona’s Eller School of Business. Clint enjoys hiking, basketball, and golf, among other sports. He and his wife are the proud parents of four children.
PHR, COSM, Senior HR Manager
Diana Abner was drawn to Southern Arizona for its warm climate and picturesque mountains, but it was Indiana where she got sucked into the world of Human Resources.
For more than 25 years, Diana has taken pride in her ‘people position.’ She’s earned her PHR and COSM, she’s a member of National SHRM and SHRM of Greater Tucson, but that hardly covers Diana’s talents and skills in the workplace. *Side note: We think Diana should also be credentialed in the kitchen for her killer Spicy Chocolate Cupcakes!
When Diana isn’t solving client problems, she’s keeping tabs on her adult sons, Garrett and Austin. She’s also an expert at making co-workers smile.
CFO
As a Certified Public Accountant (Arizona) with a Master’s Degree in Accounting from the University of Arizona’s Eller College of Management and a Bachelor’s Degree in Corporate Financial Management from the University of Akron, Kirk Eickhoff oversees all aspects of the finance and accounting functions at FocusHR, which includes accounting for and reconciling client payroll, retirement accounts, taxes, and benefits as well as internal financial reporting and management. Prior to joining FocusHR, Kirk held executive leadership roles in the aviation industry and has worked as a financial statement auditor. When not safeguarding client assets, Kirk spends his spare time playing guitar, lifting weights, and playing board games with his daughter. Standing at 6’7″ tall, it’s hard to miss Kirk when he’s walking around the office!
PHRi, HRCI-CP, HR Director
Jennifer Hatcher brings a wealth of experience in mergers, acquisitions, and high-growth environments to Focus HR. With over 14 years in the field, she excels at integrating businesses, streamlining HR operations, and driving long-term workforce strategies. As HR Director, she ensures clients receive expert guidance in payroll, benefits, compliance, training, and policy development.
Jennifer holds an MBA from Keller Graduate School of Management and is currently pursuing a PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology at Capella University. Her approach is rooted in patience, strategic thinking, and a passion for building strong workplace cultures.
Outside of work, Jennifer finds joy in her two sons, Devin and Dominic. She enjoys playing the guitar and piano, staying active, and embracing a healthy lifestyle.
SPHR, Chief Operating Officer
Greg Stutz is the definition of loyalty. He took his first job out of college at Focus HR, Inc. and, at an impressive 6’ 6” tall, has climbed the ladder of success by making landmark decisions with sensible open-mindedness.
Greg graduated from Eller College of Management at the University of Arizona in 2008. With his accounting degree, he has taken Focus HR, Inc. to soaring heights, creating and implementing both long and short-term solutions that net our clients considerable results.
Greg is a proud member of the Men’s Active 20/30 Club. He also enjoys hunting, fishing, and golfing. Greg and his wife, Anna have three sons – Brockett, Axton, and Beckham.
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President & CEO
When Tracy Cole isn’t meeting with Focus clients she’s busy building and nurturing her team of HR crusaders. Focus HR, Inc. is structured around Tracy’s deeply-held principles and follows a strong moral compass. Everything is personal with Tracy, and her mission is to always do the right thing.
Tracy grew up in California, attended UCLA, and became the Chief Financial Officer at a healthcare company. When she found her heart in the Tucson desert, she followed her passion into the world of human resources.
Tracy will tell you, her greatest accomplishment has been raising her daughters, Katie and Allie. She also enjoys breeding and training horses for competitive reining.
