Melissa Boone

Melissa Boone drives the firm’s global people strategy and champions a culture rooted in excellence, collaboration, and human‑centered leadership. A key member of the firm’s C‑suite, she spearheads initiatives that align talent management, organizational development, and workforce strategy with Steptoe’s long‑term business objectives. 

With more than two decades of experience in human capital leadership, Melissa has guided transformative change across a diverse range of industries, including professional services, public health, media, biotechnology, defense, IT, and government contracting. Her experience spans talent strategy and development, workforce planning, engagement, and change management. Before joining Steptoe, she held executive roles across both public and private sectors, where she was recognized for driving operational efficiency and building high‑performing teams. 

In addition to her role at Steptoe, Melissa serves as a strategic advisor and board‑level participant in matters related to workplace culture, and human capital strategy. She regularly collaborates with leadership teams to guide people‑focused initiatives, support long‑range talent planning, and provide insight on complex workforce challenges. Her influence in the human resources community has been recognized through industry honors highlighting her impact as a senior leader in the Washington, DC region.

Melissa earned her J.D. from the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, an M.A. in Counseling Psychology from Bowie State University, and a B.A. in Sociology from the University of Maryland. She maintains professional certifications as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and a SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM‑SCP). Melissa is a member of the Maryland State Bar Association.