HR Leaders

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we sit down with Frederic Patitucci, Chief People & Culture Officer at Philip Morris International, reveals the inside story of PMI’s decade-long transformation, from a traditional tobacco company to a science-driven, smoke-free business.Frédéric explains how PMI rebuilt its business model, operating model, and culture while navigating one of the most ambitious shifts in corporate history. He shares how the company co-created its cultural framework, PMI DNA, with more than 350 employees across backgrounds, levels, and regions, ensuring it wasn’t a top-down exercise but a true grassroots movement.From redefining values like We Care, Better Together, and Game Changers, to enforcing “license to operate” behavioral expectations, Frédéric shows how culture became PMI’s ultimate accelerator for radical change, responsible AI adoption, and leadership accountability.🎓 In this episode, Frédéric discusses:Why defining undesirable behaviors was essentialThe creation of PMI DNA, co-built with 350+ employeesThe “license to operate” and how culture drives accountabilityHow PMI uses culture as a first line of defense for responsible AI scalingHow PMI redesigned its culture during a massive business transformation🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - WorkhumanDiscover how to Build Human-Centred Workplaces which Thrive! → https://www.workhuman.com/resources/reports-guides/the-human-centred-workplace-building-organisational-cultures-that-thrive-emea/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we sit down with Michiel van Duin, Chief People Technology, Data and Insights Officer at Novartis to discuss how the company is building a human-centered AI ecosystem that connects people, data, and technology.Michiel explains how Novartis brings together HR, IT, and corporate strategy to align AI innovation with the company’s long-term workforce and business goals. He shares how the team built an AI governance framework and a dedicated AI and innovation function inside HR, ensuring responsible use of AI while maintaining trust and transparency.From defining when AI should step in and when a “human-in-the-loop” is essential, to upskilling employees and creating the first “Ask Novartis” AI assistant, Michiel shows how Novartis is making AI practical, ethical, and human.🎓 In this episode, Michiel discusses:Deciding where AI ends and the human beginsDeveloping “Ask Novartis,” the company’s HR AI assistantUpskilling HR with AI-first capabilities and new hybrid rolesBuilding AI governance and responsible-use frameworks at NovartisPartnering across HR, IT, and strategy to align AI with business goals🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - WorkhumanDiscover how to Build Human-Centred Workplaces which Thrive! → https://www.workhuman.com/resources/reports-guides/the-human-centred-workplace-building-organisational-cultures-that-thrive-emea/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we sit down with Gina Vargiu-Breuer, Chief People Officer and Labor Director at SAP, to explore how SAP is transforming into a truly skills-led, AI-powered organization. Gina shares how the company is reimagining its HR operating model by combining AI innovation with deep cultural roots, creating what she calls “human–AI power couples.”She discusses how SAP’s transition from role-based to skills-based talent management is changing everything, from recruiting and learning to performance and mobility. Gina reveals how SAP defined a company-wide skills taxonomy of 800+ evolving capabilities, built adaptive learning journeys, and encourages employees to invest 15% of their time in continuous learning.With her authentic energy, Gina explains how culture, curiosity, and speed are fueling SAP’s AI-first strategy, and why the future of HR depends on embracing technology without losing humanity.🎓 In this episode, Gina discusses:Building a human–AI partnership to power transformationEmbedding AI across recruiting, performance, and mobilityEncouraging employees to spend 15% of their time on learningThe company’s 800+ skill taxonomy and adaptive learning modelHow SAP is moving from role-based to skills-based talent management🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - WorkhumanDiscover how to Build Human-Centred Workplaces which Thrive! → https://www.workhuman.com/resources/reports-guides/the-human-centred-workplace-building-organisational-cultures-that-thrive-emea/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we sit down with Eric Mosley, Founder, CEO, and Board Member at Workhuman to discuss how AI and recognition are reshaping the workplace. Eric reveals how companies can unlock hidden talent and reduce bias by combining AI with the human data hidden inside recognition moments.He explains why 80–90% of AI projects fail, not because of the technology, but because companies lack meaningful data to train their systems. Recognition, he says, provides a treasure trove of insight into real performance, collaboration, and potential.From the emotional power of gratitude to the measurable ROI of recognition, Eric paints a vision of the future where AI doesn’t replace humanity, it amplifies it.🎓 In this episode, Eric discusses:How recognition data fuels smarter, fairer AIWhy 80–90% of AI projects fail, and how to fix itThe emotional and financial ROI of gratitude at workHow AI can help uncover hidden talent and reduce biasReal examples of recognition improving retention and engagement🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - WorkhumanDiscover how to Build Human-Centred Workplaces which Thrive! → https://www.workhuman.com/resources/reports-guides/the-human-centred-workplace-building-organisational-cultures-that-thrive-emea/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we sit down with Amy Coleman, Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer at Microsoft, to explore what it means to lead with humanity in the age of AI. After 25 years at Microsoft, Amy shares how HR’s role is transforming, from managing processes to designing experiences that balance innovation and empathy.She discusses how Microsoft is navigating AI’s impact on work, emphasizing trust, transparency, and inclusion as essential foundations. Amy explains why leaders must reframe AI as a tool for creativity and connection, not control - and how building psychological safety unlocks innovation across generations and geographies.From vulnerability and gratitude to rethinking leadership in uncertainty, Amy’s perspective is a masterclass in staying human in a tech-driven world.🎓 In this episode, Amy discusses:Why gratitude and curiosity fuel innovationHow to balance high performance with empathyCreating psychological safety across global teamsHow AI is reshaping HR and leadership at MicrosoftWhy vulnerability builds deeper trust and motivation🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - WorkhumanDiscover how to Build Human-Centred Workplaces which Thrive! → https://www.workhuman.com/resources/reports-guides/the-human-centred-workplace-building-organisational-cultures-that-thrive-emea/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Sandrine GIRSZYN, Chief Human Resources Officer Headquarters at AXA, about redefining the role of the manager in a fast-changing world. Sandrine explains how managers have become the crucial layer holding transformation, well-being, and performance together, and why HR must put them back at the center of organizational strategy.She shares how AXA is supporting more than 4,000 managers worldwide through a human-centered approach built on listening, co-creation, and trust. Rather than relying solely on AI or digital training, Sandrine reveals how in-person connection, community, and peer learning have become AXA’s secret to real development.From creating a “People Link” community to launching a global coaching platform, this episode is a roadmap for every HR leader trying to upskill managers while keeping the human touch alive.🎓 In this episode, Sandrine discusses:Offering real-time, human coaching, not AI substitutesHow in-person connection strengthens trust and capabilityHow AXA supports them through listening and co-creationBuilding a “People Link” community for peer learning and supportWhy middle managers are the most critical layer in transformation🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - WorkhumanDiscover how to Build Human-Centred Workplaces which Thrive! → https://www.workhuman.com/resources/reports-guides/the-human-centred-workplace-building-organisational-cultures-that-thrive-emea/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we sit down with Alejandra Piñol, Deputy Chief HR Officer at IKEA, to explore how one of the world’s most iconic brands keeps its culture alive while transforming at global scale. Alejandra opens up about leading through rapid change and protecting the company’s unique values across more than 170,000 co-workers and 60 countries.She shares how IKEA empowers its frontline teams through trust and autonomy, and how simplicity has become the foundation of their HR transformation. Alejandra explains the importance of listening to co-workers, building leaders from within, and keeping people, not process, at the heart of every decision.From balancing consistency and local relevance to nurturing humility and belonging, this episode is a blueprint for scaling culture without losing your soul.🎓 In this episode, Alejandra discusses:Balancing global culture with local flexibilityBuilding humble, values-driven leaders from withinSimplifying HR so leaders can focus on people, not processProtecting IKEA’s values while scaling across 60+ countriesEmpowering frontline co-workers through trust and autonomy🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - WorkhumanDiscover how to Build Human-Centred Workplaces which Thrive! → https://www.workhuman.com/resources/reports-guides/the-human-centred-workplace-building-organisational-cultures-that-thrive-emea/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, Josh Bersin, Global Industry Analyst and CEO of The Josh Bersin Company, breaks down the AI revolution transforming HR and the workforce.Josh explains how AI is creating the era of the “Superworker” - empowering employees to do more, learn faster, and take on higher-value roles. He reveals why HR must lead the AI agenda, how to frame AI as a growth opportunity (not a threat), and what it takes to build a culture of continuous reinvention instead of one-time transformation.From rethinking job structures to designing intelligent employee experiences with digital agents, this episode uncovers what forward-thinking CHROs are doing to turn fear into curiosity and shape the human future of AI at work.🎓 In this episode, Josh discusses:How AI is creating the Superworker eraHow to build a culture of curiosity, not fearWhy HR must move from projects to continuous reinventionThe importance of framing AI as empowerment, not replacementThe impact of AI-driven agents like Galileo on employee experienceDiscover how to Build Human-Centred Workplaces which Thrive! → https://www.workhuman.com/resources/reports-guides/the-human-centred-workplace-building-organisational-cultures-that-thrive-emea/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this haunted edition of the HR Leaders Podcast, behavioral scientist and Founder & Host at Influencers: Jon Levy joins us to reveal the chilling science behind why some teams rise from the dead and others crumble into dusty skeletons.We explore what truly drives high-performing teams in a world where hybrid work can feel like a ghost town 👻Jon explains why organizations must stop obsessing over lone “superstars” and instead invest in glue people, belonging, and intentional connection.We also unpack how psychological safety, shared rituals, and team norms bring culture to life, and how to protect your organization from “energy vampires” that drain morale 🎃🎓 In this episode, Jon discusses:How belonging and trust fuel performanceWhy teams outperform superstar individualsRituals leaders can use to bring culture to lifeThe impact of glue people vs energy-drainersWhy hybrid work fails without intentional connectionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, Anoop Gupta, Co-Founder and CEO at SeekOut, joins to discuss how AI is redefining recruiting, roles, and the future of work.Anoop shares his journey from Stanford professor and Microsoft executive to leading one of the fastest-growing AI talent platforms in the world. He explains how AI agents are already transforming recruiting - automating 70% of repetitive tasks - while freeing humans to focus on relationships, creativity, and strategy.He also unpacks how CHROs must prepare for a future where AI and humans collaborate as equals, why recruiters will evolve into true talent advisors, and how to experiment safely with AI to stay ahead of the curve.🎓 In this episode, Anoop discusses:How to use AI to make hiring faster and more humanHow AI agents are changing the recruiter’s role foreverWhy CHROs must redefine work before AI does it for themWhat the future of AI-human collaboration will look like in HRWhy every company should start experimenting with agentic AI nowSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, Sam Schlimper, Managing Director at Randstad Enterprise, shares how to reimagine work and unlock human potential in the age of AI.Sam explains why transformation shouldn’t start with systems or processes, but with people - their motivations, values, and sense of purpose. She discusses how AI can be a powerful catalyst for creativity and growth when designed with intention, and why the real challenge isn’t technology, but rediscovering what makes work meaningful for humans.The conversation dives deep into how to redesign jobs, rethink emerging talent, and rebuild organizations around joy, curiosity, and connection - not just productivity.🎓 In this episode, Sam discusses:Why joy and curiosity drive real performanceWhat sustainable transformation really looks likeHow AI can amplify, not replace, human creativityHow to rethink emerging talent for the next generationWhy work should start with people, not processes or toolsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Mark Lobosco, VP of Talent Solutions at LinkedIn, about the launch of LinkedIn’s new Hiring Assistant and how AI is transforming recruiting. Mark reflects on his 17-year journey at LinkedIn, where he leads global client-facing teams and helps organizations hire faster and smarter. He breaks down how AI is reshaping recruiting workflows, freeing recruiters from administrative work, and helping them find hidden talent with unprecedented precision. Mark also explains how LinkedIn built the tool responsibly, with transparency and trust at the core, and shares what’s next for recruiters as skills evolve faster than ever.🎓 In this episode, Mark discusses:Launching LinkedIn’s new AI-powered Hiring AssistantWhy AI fluency is the #1 skill for recruiters in 2025 and beyondHow trust, transparency, and change management drive adoptionHow recruiters save 4 hours per role and get 69% better candidate responsesWhy 70% of job skills will change by 2030 - and what HR leaders must do nowSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Bryan Power, Head of People at Nextdoor, about leading through transformation, building a “founder’s mentality” culture, and why HR must take the lead on AI adoption. Bryan shares lessons from scaling Google, Square, and Yahoo before joining Nextdoor, where he helped navigate an IPO, COVID, and now AI disruption. He introduces Project NAI-BOR (Nextdoor Artificial Intelligence Building Operational Readiness), explains how to unleash safe experimentation, and why HR can’t afford to be a passenger in the AI shift. The conversation also covers mental health, hybrid work, and the next frontier of employee experience.🎓 In this episode, Bryan discusses:Mental health as today’s workplace injuryHow to manage the uncomfortable truths of hybrid workHow Project NAI-BOR helps HR lead AI adoption at scaleWhy a founder’s mentality creates urgency and frontline focusBalancing experimentation with structure in AI policy and rollout🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Heidi Barnett, President of Talent Acquisition at isolved, about how AI is reshaping recruiting and why candidate experience now matters more than ever. Heidi shares her journey from marketing into HR tech leadership and explains why the best recruiters today act more like growth leaders. She discusses the shift from sourcing to screening, why resumes are becoming obsolete, and how AI exposes broken hiring processes. The conversation explores how TA teams can reduce burnout, partner better with CHROs, and reimagine hiring from the ground up in the age of AI.🎓 In this episode, Heidi discusses:The shift from sourcing to screening in hiringWhy resumes and degrees are becoming less relevantHow AI frees recruiters to focus on human connectionHow CHROs can reduce TA burnout and drive hiring successWhy recruiters must now design marketing-style candidate experiences🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Donnie Upshaw, Chief People Officer & Senior Vice President at Wingstop Restaurants Inc., about scaling one of the fastest-growing restaurant brands while protecting culture and developing frontline talent. Donnie shares how 70% of Wingstop’s general managers started as hourly employees, why the GM role is the most important in the company, and how intentional development, micro-learning, and recognition fuel growth. He also explains how Wingstop uses storytelling, internal podcasts, and community giving to connect 47,000+ team members worldwide.🎓 In this episode, Donnie discusses:Why 70% of Wingstop GMs started as hourly employeesWhy the GM is the single most important role in the businessHow to scale culture across 2,800 restaurants in 15 countriesBuilding connection through storytelling, recognition, and community givingUsing micro-learning, gamification, and mobile tools for frontline development🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Elle Lebourg, Global Head of Talent Acquisition at Hilti Group, about transforming TA to hire 55,000 people in six years while protecting culture and experience. Elle explains why classic change models fall short, how authentic communication sustains engagement, and why TA must adopt a product mindset. She shares how Hilti maps candidate journeys, balances global standards with local nuance, and keeps people, not tools, at the center of transformation.🎓 In this episode, Elle discusses:Using raw, authentic communication to build trust in transformationBalancing global standards with local cultural nuance in every marketRunning TA like a product team with journey mapping and key momentsWhy focusing on how people feel sustains change better than old modelsHiring 55,000 people in six years and what it takes to scale TA responsibly🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with KeyAnna Schmiedl, Chief Human Experience (People) Officer at Workhuman, about reimagining recognition in the age of AI.KeyAnna shares how Workhuman is using AI to enhance - not replace - human connection, from just-in-time recognition to personalized career support. She explains why recognition must go beyond rewards, how to build cultures where people feel truly seen, and why strategic investment in recognition is a business imperative, not a nice-to-have.🎓 In this episode, KeyAnna discusses:The ROI of recognition and its cultural impactWhy recognition is more than just rewards and bonusesCreating just-in-time, personalized employee experiencesHow AI enhances human connection instead of replacing itWhy trust, authenticity, and care should anchor HR strategy🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Jon Caldwell, SVP & Chief People Officer at Valvoline Inc., about leading people strategy during rapid growth and transformation. Jon shares how Valvoline, a 160-year-old brand, has doubled its retail footprint and plans to nearly double again by 2030, all while maintaining a strong “family” culture. He explains the company’s grow-from-within model where 95% of managers start as technicians, the importance of scalable HR processes, and how traditions like the “Oil Olympics” reinforce teamwork and pride. The conversation highlights how culture, leadership, and data-driven HR fuel both business growth and employee success.🎓 In this episode, Jon discusses:Maintaining culture and inclusion while doubling store countHow 95% of leaders grow from technician to management rolesValvoline’s transformation into a pure-play retail growth businessUsing training, data, and scalable HR to prepare for 20,000+ employeesWhy traditions like the “Oil Olympics” and Family Reunion fuel engagement🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Cathy Peterman, Chief People Officer for Tech, Product & Design at Wayfair, about navigating transformation, leading through change, and preparing the workforce for the AI era. Cathy shares her unusual path from studying international conflict resolution to leading HR at global brands, and how curiosity, resilience, and embracing discomfort have fueled her career. She discusses imposter syndrome, why transferable skills matter more than titles, and how generative AI is reshaping recruitment, performance, and learning at Wayfair.🎓 In this episode, Cathy discusses:Why imposter syndrome can actually signal growthBuilding careers around transferable skills, not rigid pathsPreparing engineers and employees for critical thinking in the AI futureHow Wayfair uses GenAI in performance, promotions, and talent acquisitionWhy leaders must balance vulnerability with confidence during transformation🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we speak with Adam Holton, Chief People Officer at GE HealthCare, about the mindset shifts HR leaders need to harness AI, personalize learning, and lead with authenticity. Adam explains why example matters more than instruction, why democratized learning is changing leadership, and how AI can act like a “superpower” for HR teams. The conversation covers embedding AI into coaching, rethinking processes instead of just automating them, and creating sticky adoption through daily use cases.🎓 In this episode, Adam discusses:Why sticky adoption requires integrating AI into routine tasksEmbedding AI into coaching and HR workflows for daily impactHow AI is transforming learning into personalized, scalable supportThe cultural mindset shift HR must lead to unlock exponential valueWhy authentic leadership is about example, not having all the answers🙏‍ Thanks you to our series partner - Greenhouse.Get measurably better at hiring with smarter, more efficient solutions – powered by built-in AI: https://www.greenhouse.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.