Stephanie Gibbs

Human Resources Manager of Operations at the Cincinnati Reds

“Thank you, Stephanie Gibbs, Human Resources Manager of Operations for the Cincinnati Reds, for sharing your story!

Stephanie supports the Reds’ business operations through key HR programs — from onboarding and performance reviews to employee engagement and leadership development. With a background in Organizational Leadership and early experience in radio and hospital HR, she brought her skills full circle to her hometown team.

She’s learned to find her voice in rooms where she’s sometimes the only woman, leaning on strong relationships and the supportive community within the Reds. Stephanie maintains balance by staying organized at work and recharging at home with her husband and their two dogs.

What she loves most: the energy of sports, the people she supports, and the chance to help shape a positive, people-first culture.”

– Zara

Please describe your role & responsibilities at that position?

In my role, I focus on the business side of the organization. I help manage key HR programs like performance reviews, onboarding, employee engagement, leadership development, and our rewards and recognition system. I work closely with departments to support their staffing needs, help managers navigate HR processes, and make sure our people feel supported and informed. I’m also involved in our culture-building efforts, including the Women’s Initiative Network, and I serve on both the HYPE Committee and the Action Committee.

What did you study in college and how did your educational background shape your career in the sports industry?

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Northern Kentucky University, and that really shaped my career path. It gave me a solid understanding of how teams work and how to support people, which has been a great fit for the sports world, especially on the business side where things move quickly and stay very people-focused.

Can you share the key milestones in your career that led you to your current position in the sports industry?

I started my career in the entertainment industry at a radio station. I loved the fast-paced environment, but there wasn’t a local HR department, so I knew I couldn’t grow in that direction. I moved into HR at a hospital, which was a very different setting but gave me the experience I needed. That foundation is what made me qualified for the Reds job when it opened, and as a lifelong Reds fan, it’s been really meaningful to bring my HR background into an industry I’ve always loved.

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a woman in the sports business, & how have you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges has been finding my voice and building confidence in spaces where I may be one of the only women. I’ve worked through that by leaning on the relationships I’ve built, taking on projects that helped me grow, and reminding myself that I earned my seat at the table. I’m also fortunate that our organization has amazing women who support one another, and having that kind of community has made a big difference.

​Balancing a career is demanding. How do you manage a work-life balance? What strategies have worked well for you?

For me, work life balance comes from being intentional. I try to stay focused and organized during the workday so I can disconnect when I leave. Working in sports doesn’t always mean regular hours and things come up, so being flexible with my time is important. I also make it a point to spend my evenings doing things that help me recharge, like spending time with my husband and our dogs. Having that space outside of work helps me feel refreshed and ready for the next day.

How important is mentorship for women in the sports industry? Have you had mentors or role models who played a significant role in your career and can give some details?

Mentorship is really important for women in the sports industry. Having people you can learn from and lean on makes such a difference, especially in an environment that can feel intimidating at times. I’ve been lucky to have leaders throughout my career who took the time to teach me, answer my questions, and help build my confidence in HR. Here at the Reds, I’ve also had strong women around me who model great leadership and support one another. Those relationships have helped me grow and are a big reason why I value groups like WIN and our mentoring efforts.

In a male-dominated industry, do you feel women are given equal opportunities? What steps do you think can be taken to promote gender equality in the sports industry?

I think the sports industry has come a long way, but there is still more progress to make. To promote gender equality, it starts with creating more opportunities for women to lead, making sure their voices are included in important conversations, and being intentional about developing and supporting them. Encouraging mentorship, offering professional development, and building a culture where women lift one another up is important, and it’s just as important for the organization to lift women up as well.

What aspects of your work in the sports industry do you enjoy the most? What parts do you find the most challenging ?

What I enjoy most about working in the sports industry is the energy. It’s fast-paced, exciting, and every day is different. I also love getting to be a fan of my hometown team that I’ve rooted for my whole life while supporting the people behind the scenes. The people side of the work is really meaningful to me, whether it’s helping staff, building programs, or contributing to a positive culture.

The most challenging part is that things can change quickly and the hours aren’t always predictable. You have to be flexible and ready to adjust when things come up. Even with the challenges, the work is rewarding and I enjoy being part of something that helps create memories for our fans.

What advice do you have for young women aspiring to build a successful career in the sports industry?

My biggest advice is to believe in yourself and take opportunities even if they feel a little intimidating. The sports industry moves fast, and you learn a lot by jumping in, asking questions, and being open to growth. Don’t be afraid to take chances and explore different opportunities so you can find the role that feels like the perfect match for you. And don’t be afraid to speak up or think outside the box. Build relationships, surround yourself with people who support you, and remember that there is space for women in this industry and your perspective is needed.

What is your long-term personal goal that you still want to achieve both business wise and personal?

Business wise, I want to keep growing in HR and continue my leadership path. I enjoy the business side of the organization and want to keep improving our programs, supporting our staff, and building a strong culture.

Personally, I want to maintain a healthy balance, spend time with my family, and keep focusing on the things that bring me joy. I also want to continue growing outside of work by making time for hobbies and experiences that keep life fun and fulfilling.

Any fun facts or interesting things you’d like the world to learn about you? Favorite food, hobbies, pet peeves, etc.?

I’m a lifelong Reds fan, and I’m also a new Cleveland Browns and IU fan because I married into it, but I love it.

Fun fact, I met my husband on Tinder and moved to Indiana when we got together (originally from Kentucky). We now live on 60 acres with our two dogs, Nola and Baker, and we love spending our summers up in the Northwoods of Wisconsin!