Chief People Officer

Merrick Dresnin is a seasoned Human Resources leader known for embedding people strategy into the core of business operations to drive performance, accountability, and results. With a background in law and deep operational leadership, he brings a direct, execution-focused approach to organizational design, leadership effectiveness, and culture.

He currently serves as Chief People Services Officer for Cote Hospitality, where he leads enterprise-wide people strategy across a multi-property portfolio. His work integrates leadership development, workforce planning, and service culture into daily operations—driving stronger engagement, improved retention, and sustained Top Workplace recognition.

Merrick has been trusted in complex, high-impact environments requiring both stabilization and growth. He has led Human Resources for major openings and transformations, including Rivers Casino in Chicago and Trump International Hotel in Washington, DC, and has held senior leadership roles with Hyatt Hotel Corporation and United Service Companies. His experience spans union and non-union environments, large-scale operations, and service-driven organizations where execution at the front line defines success.

As an Advisory Board Member of Gravity Talent Partners, Merrick works with leadership teams to assess, refine, and modernize their people practices - ensuring alignment with business goals, operational realities, and growth strategy. His focus is simple: embed people strategy into the business in a way that drives consistency, accountability, and performance.

He is also an active contributor to the profession through writing, speaking, and teaching, focused on the practical application of people strategy in complex organizations.