Parsons Behle & Latimer (Parsons), a preeminent law firm in the Intermountain Region is pleased to announce that Johanna Barraco has joined the firm as its new chief people officer. Barraco joins Parsons in its Salt Lake City office. Prior to joining Parsons, Barraco served as chief people officer at Salt Lake City’s Westminster University. In her role at Parsons, Barraco will lead the workforce of one of the largest law firms in the Intermountain Region with more than 400 team members, including more than 215 attorneys, in 11 offices throughout Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah and Wyoming.
In her past roles as a human resources executive, Barraco has had the opportunity to work closely with several attorneys, many of whom are now at Parsons. Through these professional connections, she became familiar with the firm and its close association with The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) – a partnership she believes Parsons contributes to in a meaningful and valuable way. Stepping into the role of Parsons’ chief people officer marks an exciting milestone in her more than 20-year career. “The opportunities within the legal industry today are both challenging and inspiring,” she says, “I am proud to be a part of a firm built on the core values of people, service, excellence and integrity. I’m fully committed to fostering a culture where our people thrive and these values guide every aspect of our work.”
“We are delighted to welcome Johanna to Parsons,” says Parsons’ President Cory D. Sinclair. “She brings exceptional experience, insight, and a people-first approach that aligns seamlessly with our culture and values. We look forward to her leadership as our new chief people officer and are excited about the positive impact she will have on our firm and on Team Parsons as a whole.”
Barraco believes that embracing diverse perspectives is essential to building a cohesive and informed team. “Each of us brings unique experiences and insights shaped by our individual journeys,” she says. “When we recognize and learn from one another, we become stronger together.”
Parsons’ strong culture and leadership’s unwavering commitment to its people were key factors in her decision to join the firm. She was drawn to the firm’s recognition that investing in its workforce is essential to long-term success. “Everyone plays an important role in contributing to the firm’s growth,” she says. “What sets strong organizations like Parsons apart is leadership that genuinely prioritizes its people. At Parsons, leadership understands that when you reinvest in your employees – supporting their development and well-being – that’s when the magic happens.”
