Ms. Denise Barnes

As HR Vice President, Ms. Barnes leads the University’s people strategy at a pivotal time marked by a continuous improvement paradigm and a heightened focus on institutional effectiveness. She provides strategic leadership for all human resources functions, from employee services and professional development to talent management, engagement, and organizational culture. These areas are integral to ensuring that faculty and staff are supported as the institution advances its mission.

A vital engine for economic and social growth, UB North remains central to the University’s mission of providing equitable access to higher education across the nation. Her leadership builds greater cohesion and operational alignment while fostering a stronger, more connected university community that values seamless collaboration, and shared goals.

Ms. Barnes’ previous senior leadership roles have been in the hospitality, legal and financial services sectors, as well as with multinational organizations. She began her career in human resources at Atlantis Resort and Casino in 1996, steadily advancing through a number of leadership roles. She went on to serve as HR Director at the One & Only Ocean Club in 2002 and later as Senior Director of Human Resources at Atlantis in 2006, building a strong foundation in talent management, employee engagement, and organizational leadership across large, complex operations.

In 2008, she was appointed Group HR Director for Fidelity Group and provided strategic human resources leadership for approximately 300 employees across four Caribbean territories. She later joined Heineken Bahamas as HR Director (2013–2015), leading meaningful improvements in HR practice, including the launch of the first Americas Regional Graduate Trainee Programme and the rollout of global HR competency frameworks.

Her work with Heineken expanded internationally through appointments in the Netherlands as Global HR Capability Consultant (2016–2018) and in Laos as HR Manager for Heineken Lao Brewery (2018–2019). While in Laos, she championed several forward-looking initiatives, most notably the introduction of a Global Inclusion and Diversity programme that strengthened organizational culture and employee development.

Ms. Barnes earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Morgan State University, Baltimore, Maryland, and an Associate of Arts Degree in Psychology with a Minor in Sociology from the former College of The Bahamas.