Milledgeville, Georgia, United States, August 2025 — Georgia College & State University has announced the appointment of Eric Johansen as the new Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). In this key leadership role, Johansen will be responsible for aligning the university’s people strategy with its mission to provide transformative education, while fostering a culture of excellence, inclusion, and accountability across the institution.
As CHRO, Eric will lead the university’s human resources function, advising the President and senior leadership on workforce planning, employee engagement, succession, DEIA initiatives, and total rewards. His mandate includes overseeing HRIS systems, professional development, compliance, and organizational development for the state’s designated public liberal arts institution.
Over a remarkable 16-year tenure at the U.S. Department of State, Eric Johansen served as Chief Human Capital Officer, where he directed all HR operations for a 450+ employee intelligence agency. He spearheaded the agency’s transition to the Excepted Service, enhanced hiring agility, launched a bureau-wide realignment of HR, introduced a custom Fellowship Program, and drove DEIA transformation. His work played a pivotal role in expanding the agency’s workforce by 50% and modernizing its human capital function.
Earlier in his career, Eric held senior HR roles at The Henry L. Stimson Center and Daft-McCune-Walker, Inc, leading strategic initiatives in compensation, compliance, benefits, and policy development. He also served as Group Leader at Target and worked in recruitment at Management Recruiters of Frederick, MD, gaining early exposure to talent acquisition and organizational culture development.
Eric’s professional journey began in the U.S. Army, where he served for over eight years across various locations, including Germany, Egypt, and multiple U.S. bases, holding roles in the Adjutant General’s Corps. His military background shaped his leadership, resilience, and understanding of organizational structure.
Eric holds a Master of Professional Studies in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from George Mason University, completed in May 2025, equipping him with a cutting-edge understanding of workforce behavior and strategic HR practices.
About Georgia College & State University
Georgia College & State University, based in Milledgeville, is Georgia’s designated public liberal arts university. It offers an exceptional educational experience that combines the rigor and personal attention of a private college with the affordability of public education. The university emphasizes academic excellence, leadership, community engagement, and lifelong learning.
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