Erika Martinez

Erika Martinez currently serves as the Assistant Director of Human Resources at Durham Academy, a position held since May 2023. With a diverse background, Erika has been the Owner/Maker of Happy Unicorn Studio since July 2015, successfully pivoting the business during the pandemic to focus on mask making and smaller curated collections. Previous experience includes roles such as Assistant Retail Manager at Pennies For Change Thrift Store, where Erika implemented systems that increased daily sales by 40%, and various teaching positions at Emerson Waldorf School and Sew Crafty, enhancing skills in handwork and sewing among students. In the human resources field, Erika held significant positions including Director of Human Resources at Spoonflower and Human Resources Director at both Piedmont Service Group and Kisco Senior Living, contributing to strategic HR functions and the establishment of HR departments in start-up environments. Erika's educational foundation includes a Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management from Florida International University.