Our philosophy is simple — hire a team of diverse, passionate people and foster a culture that empowers you to do your best work.
Steve Ivester
Owner &Â CEO
From Columbia, he graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business at Limestone College in Gaffney, SC. He served eight years in the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, NC and worked for the Inspector General during a tour of duty in South Korea. After receiving an Honorable discharge from the military in 1978, he worked with UMBRO USA, Gerber Children’s Wear and as a test driver for Michelin prior to starting Ideal HR in 1997. He participated on various boards and committees with the Red Cross and the Fountain Inn Chamber of Commerce. While not working, he enjoys playing racquetball and R.V.'ing.
""What if I train my people and they leave?" I say, what if you don't train them... and they stay..." Â
Johanna Inman
President
Originally from Anderson, she completed her studies at the University of South Carolina, earning a Fine Arts Degree specializing in Photography and Jewelry Design. Her HR journey commenced at HTI, where she assisted clients such as Fuji Film and Robert Bosch in recruitment. Transitioning to the Ideal HR team in 2008, she now boasts over 20 years of HR expertise and holds certifications in PRH, SHRM-CP, as well as TTI Behavior Science in DISC, Driving Forces, Acumen, and EQ. Currently serving as the President of Ideal HR. In her off time, she enjoys gardening, flipping furniture and spending time with her family. Â
“In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different”
Chris McCord
VPÂ of Business Development
Chris is a seasoned professional with a BS in Business and Marketing from Winthrop University. Growing up in Greenville, he has spent his career working with small to mid-sized businesses across the Southeast, specializing in sales roles in various capacities. Over the years, he’s developed a passion for mentoring early-stage companies, particularly through several programs in the Upstate region. An active member of the Greenville Society for Human Resource Management (GSHRM), he also helps lead the Culture Affinity group, contributing his expertise to help cultivate positive and productive workplace environments. He thrives on connecting local business leaders with the right resources to foster growth tailored to their unique needs. Outside of work, Chris enjoys making memories with his family, spending time in nature through hiking and backpacking, and playing competitive tennis.
"Success is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts."
Wendy Hines
Benefits Manager
Hailing from Upstate South Carolina, she is a proud graduate of Spartanburg Community College. As a licensed broker, she consistently pursues further education in the field to stay updated. With over two decades of experience in insurance and human resources, she has a rich background. Previously, she held the position of President at the Spartanburg Association of Insurance Professionals and currently serves as the Secretary on the Spartanburg Preparatory School Board. During her leisure time, she enjoys golfing and beach outings with her two children. Presently, she holds the role of Benefits Manager at Ideal HR.
"Don't count the days, make the days count."
Sara-Grace Garcia
HRÂ Client Success Manager
A Greenville, SC native and a proud graduate of Arizona State University, where she honed her skills in the art of Organizational Studies and Leadership. In 2021, she joined the Ideal HR team, and currently holds the position of HR Client Success Manager. She enjoys walking the Swamp Rabbit Trail and getting coffee at the local shops!
"When you hit a wrong note, it's the next note that makes it good or bad."
Jessica Johnson
HRÂ Client Success Manager
Originally from Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. She holds her Associates of Arts degree from the University of North Florida as well as her HR Generalist Certificate from Greenville Tech. She has a robust background in customer service, driven by a passion for connecting with people. She holds the position of HR Client Success Manager at Ideal HR. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, pottery, and trying new restaurants!
"Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself."
