Ovell Barbee Jr. is a nationally recognized human resources strategist, consultant, and speaker known for his human-centered approach to leadership, workforce transformation, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). As Principal of Ovell Rome & Associates (dba Ask Ovell), Ovell draws on a career spanning Fortune 500 companies such as Motorola, Blue Cross Blue Shield, General Motors/OnStar, Spectrum Health (now Corewell Health), and Indiana University Health.
With an emphasis on systemic change, Ovell has led culture transformations, implemented equitable HR and DEI practices, and helped organizations navigate complexity with authenticity and integrity. His leadership philosophy is grounded in encouraging people to “use their voice” — a theme that resonates throughout his work and his signature platform, AskOvell.com.
A two-time chair of the National HR Healthcare Conference (2022, 2023), Ovell is a sought-after speaker who has delivered keynotes and workshops at national forums such as Becker’s Healthcare Annual Meeting, the Healthcare HR Management Institute, and the National Diversity Council’s Black Men in Leadership Summit. He has been featured in news articles, webinars, and podcasts and frequently shares insights through his platform and his popular slogan, “You better ask somebody!”
Born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Ovell credits his upbringing and early work experiences for shaping his values. He holds a bachelor’s degree in communications and a master’s in social work from the University of Michigan, as well as a master’s degree in human resources and labor relations from Michigan State University. As part of his ongoing commitment to education and equity, Ovell supports deserving college students through the Barbee Book Club, which provides books and supplies for all four years of college.
His debut book, The Big House: A Human-Centered & Progressive Approach to DEI and Positive Workplace Engagement (2023), quickly became an Amazon bestseller.
Awards and Affiliations
- Top Innovative Personality of the Year, CXO Times Awards (2025)
- Crain’s Notable HR Leaders (2024)
- Top 100 Chief Diversity Officers – National Diversity Council
- Top 100 HR Professionals – OnCon
- Top 50 Under 50 Executive – National Black MBA Association
- Walter Coe Public Service GIANT Award – City of Grand Rapids (2020)
- Board Member: Heart of West Michigan United Way, STEM Greenhouse, The Unity Collaborative
- Member: SHRM, NBMBAA, National Association of Corporate Directors, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
- Former board member: National Diversity Council’s National Coalition for Racial Justice and Equity