When HR Needs
to Step Up,
We Step In.

Start Smart HR offers fractional HR leadership and project-based execution on a flexible basis for companies facing the pressure of growth, change, or transformation.

Let’s Work Together

Growth Deserves Experienced HR

Start Smart HR was born from firsthand experience with the challenges growth-stage companies face as they scale—particularly when they outgrow their early HR model but aren’t yet ready for a full-time Chief Human Resources Officer.

That’s why we partner with founder-led, Private Equity, and growth-oriented executive teams—post-funding, in transition, or preparing for a new phase—bringing strategic clarity, operational credibility, and hands-on support across HR leadership, recruiting, and advisory work.

Led by an Atlanta-based HR executive with deep experience in professional services, tech, and high-growth environments, Start Smart HR helps you move fast without cutting corners. The result?

People strategies, structures, and systems that work now — and position you for long-term success.

OUR SERVICES

Flexible Support For Your Growing Business

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Fractional & Interim HR Leadership

Experienced HR outsourced leadership—when and how you need it—to guide your organization through growth, change, or transition.

HR Talent Recruiting

Led by a seasoned HR executive — not a traditional recruiter — who knows the market and challenges assumptions to deliver hires who align with your business, not just your job description.

HR Advisory Services

Whether it’s org design, role clarity, or HR tech, we bring solutions that match your growth stage — shaped by someone who’s built them before.

Testimonials

What Our Clients Are Saying

When the ideal hire is already in the room...

“Initially, we partnered with Start Smart HR to lead the search for our VP, People & Culture — and ended up directly hiring Gerard!
What he brought fundamentally helped to shape the next chapter of our business.”

When your people strategy needs senior leadership—but not a full-time CHRO…

“Gerard quickly became a trusted member of our leadership team. He brings clarity, structure, and deep HR insight — and has helped us move forward with confidence.”

When the stakes are high for a key HR hire…

“Start Smart HR was a true partner in the process — strategic, clear, and focused on finding us a long-term fit. The hire they helped us make continues to deliver value for our team.”

When your HR lead leaves the company at a critical time…

“Start Smart HR provided exactly what we needed — strategic stability, day-to-day leadership, and a long-term plan for scaling HR. They made sure we didn’t just patch the gap — we used it to get better.”

about us

Start Smart HR adapts big-company know-how to the realities of growing businesses.

We provide grounded, practical HR support to companies that are scaling fast and cannot afford to make mistakes.

Gerard Borda — Chief Principal/Founder

Make Your Next Move With Clarity

If you’re preparing for funding or acquisition, facing investor pressure, or growing fast, it’s worth asking:
Is your people strategy keeping up?
Let’s talk through what you need—and what you don’t.

Book A Free 30-Minute Call

When HR Needs to Step Up, We Step In.