Since joining Cranfill Sumner in 2008, Alissa Lama has had the privilege of working alongside exceptional professionals to help shape and evolve the firm’s human resources strategy. Through collaboration, insight, and a deep understanding of people and culture, she has contributed to building an HR function that supports the firm’s growth, values, and commitment to a positive employee experience.
Alissa leads with a people-first mindset, aligning HR operations with business objectives while championing the employee experience. She oversees workforce planning, performance management, benefits administration, and engagement initiatives, ensuring that HR practices are responsive, forward-thinking, and inclusive.
Alissa’s passion for human resources began during a college program at Walt Disney World, where she spent a semester working and learning how HR operated at “The Most Magical Place on Earth.” That formative experience sparked her interest in the field and laid the foundation for a career focused on supporting employees and building strong workplace cultures.
She went on to hold HR roles in her hometown of Rochester, New York where she led recruitment efforts, managed employee relations and training programs, and ensured compliance within healthcare, corporate and IT environments.
Alissa has a B.S. in Human Resources Management from Keuka College and an A.S. in Liberal Arts from Monroe Community College. She is an active member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the Association of Legal Administrators (ALA), and the National Association of Professional Women (NAPW). She also serves on Cranfill Sumner’s Diversity & Inclusion Committee, reflecting her commitment to building inclusive and equitable workplaces.
Outside of work, Alissa enjoys spending time with her family, travelling and reading.
