Shalanna Pirtle is Parker Poe’s executive overseeing all aspects of talent management, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). She sets the strategic vision and oversees implementation of the firm’s efforts related to DEI, professional development, and recruiting and retention. She also cultivates strategic partnerships with organizations and individuals outside the firm to help further DEI in the legal profession and the broader community.
In addition, Shalanna is a trusted mediator and employment attorney. Certified as a mediator by the North Carolina Dispute Resolution Commission, Shalanna mediates disputes of varying subject matters at the state and federal levels, both before and during litigation. She has deep experience identifying key areas of dispute, building bridges to better understanding between parties, and helping them find common ground.
Shalanna also represents employers in all industries and aspects of the employment relationship. An analytical counselor with intuitive problem-solving skills, she concentrates her practice in the areas of employment counseling, internal investigations, and litigation. She is admitted to practice before the state courts of North Carolina and Georgia, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, and the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern, Middle, and Western Districts of North Carolina and the Northern District of Georgia.
Shalanna regularly defends employers in litigation under all of the state and federal anti-discrimination laws, as well as employment contract disputes, wrongful discharge claims, and wage and hour issues. She also represents clients in proceedings before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the North Carolina Departments of Labor and Commerce.
Shalanna offers insightful guidance to organizations making critical decisions that impact both employee relations and legal risk management. She is highly regarded for her innate ability to develop cost-effective solutions that are tailored to fit the needs of each organization. She has substantial experience in helping clients navigate workplace and cultural sensitivity issues.
Prior to joining Parker Poe, Shalanna worked for several years as a corporate trainer for one of the largest international dining restaurant companies.