We’ve always known she was one of the best—and now it’s official.
We’re proud to share that our Founder and President, Kristin Nordling, has been named a 2025 Notable Leader in Recruitment & Talent by Twin Cities Business magazine!
This recognition honors 16 standout professionals who lead the way in attracting top talent, strengthening culture, and engaging employees—starting from within their own organizations. According to TCB, these leaders set the standard not just in the workplace, but also through their community involvement.
If you know Kristin, you know this describes her to a T.
Kristin founded Lakeside HR Group in 2021 after more than 25 years in senior HR leadership roles. She had reached the CHRO level, yet she felt the pull to create something different—something more personal and impactful.
“I wanted to show leaders that HR wasn’t about saying no—it was about understanding the business and helping it move forward. That’s why I started Lakeside.”
– Kristin Nordling, Founder & President
With that vision, she built Lakeside HR Group from the ground up. And just a few short years later, Lakeside’s team of 17 HR consultants and recruiters are trusted by growing businesses across the country.
Kristin is wired for connection. Whether it’s guiding a founder through a tough hiring challenge, brainstorming an HR strategy, or encouraging a team member to reach their next level—she brings clarity, heart, and energy into every room she’s in. That same passion shines through in the way she leads Lakeside.
“Her abundance mindset, her activator approach, her risk tolerance – all in the interest of progress over perfection – are just a few of the ways Kristin sets the tone at Lakeside HR Group and encourages others to lead boldly and grow with vision and intention.”
– Erin Hargrove, Director of Business Development and Growth Strategy
“Kristin leads with heart and conviction—her authenticity is magnetic, and it creates a ripple effect across every client and colleague she touches. What makes her truly special isn’t just her vision—it’s how she brings others along with her. She’s one-of-a-kind, a trailblazer, and a fantastic leader!”
– Nick Burns, Recruiting Division Director
“Kristin leads from a place of abundance, always focused on supporting and building community. Her vast network, positive attitude, and quick response time ensure world-class experiences for both candidates and clients. As a strong leader, she is incredibly supportive of her team and authentically cares about you when you know her. It’s a privilege and honor to be a part of what she is building.”
– Becky Foy, HR Division Director
We’re incredibly proud of Kristin and the impact she’s made—not just on our clients, but on every person she’s met along the way. This recognition is so well deserved.
Congratulations, Kristin!
Read more about the Notable 2025 honorees in Twin Cities Business.
About Lakeside HR Group
We are a premier HR Consulting and Recruiting firm connecting people and businesses through personalized, full-service solutions. As a boutique firm of seasoned HR professionals, we specialize in providing customized HR services for small to midsize businesses. With expertise across diverse industries, positions, and states throughout the U.S., we partner with our clients to discover top talent and deliver the support needed to help their businesses thrive.
