How HR Leaders Change the World

Ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week, Geoff McDonald discusses how he helps leadership and HR create workplaces where everyone can ask for help without stigma. Advocating that current wellbeing efforts focus too much on individuals, Geoff notes that burnout levels aren't decreasing despite efforts, and sets out the case for moving to organisation wide wellbeing through culture change. Mental Health Awareness Week commences on 11th May 2026; this year's theme is Action. Geoff's call to action for you: start with your own mental health. Only when you care about yourself can you lead the workplace culture revolution.  Elevating wellbeing to a strategic priority: Geoff McDonald's work Thank you to Geoff McDonald for sponsoring this episode. Geoff is a global advocate, campaigner and consultant passionate about addressing the stigma of mental ill health in workplaces. As former Global VP of Human Resources at Unilever, Geoff brings practical experience helping organisations elevate wellbeing to a strategic priority in the C-suite. In 2014, he left Unilever to devote his expertise to ending the stigma of depression and anxiety in the workplace - because he knows first-hand that talking about mental health saves lives. As a business transformation consultant and co-founder of charity Minds@Work, Geoff helps organisations define purpose beyond growth and profitability, and develop holistic wellbeing strategies that unlock true performance potential. Learn more about Geoff McDonald's work: www.geoffmcdonald.co.uk   Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?   Our book of the month for April is Start with Why by Simon Sinek – a powerful exploration of what separates truly inspiring leaders from the rest.   Simon challenges the conventional focus on what we do or how we do it, and instead argues that great leaders and organisations start with why – their purpose, cause, or belief. Through his Golden Circle framework, he demonstrates how the most inspiring leaders think, act and communicate from the inside out.   Drawing on examples from Apple, Martin Luther King Jr, and the Wright Brothers, Sinek shows that people don't buy what you do – they buy why you do it. When organisations are clear about their purpose, they attract employees and customers who share their beliefs, creating cultures of trust and belonging where people feel valued and motivated to contribute their best work. This isn't just about messaging; it's about building sustainable success through authentic, purpose-driven leadership.   Whether you're looking to inspire your team, build deeper trust with clients, or create a culture where innovation thrives, Start with Why offers a compelling framework for leading with intention.   Head to UpliftingPeople.com to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book.  

Aly challenges HR to step up: it's time to stop being a support function and become architects of workforce reinvention. With 92 million jobs expected to be obsolete by 2030, yet 170 million new roles predicted to emerge, this isn't about job loss or creation in isolation - it's about connecting talent acquisition, skills strategy, internal mobility and leadership development as one system.   Her personal passion centres on young people entering the workforce. As a mother of four at career-entry age, Aly worries that automation is eliminating entry-level roles that once served as gateways to learning how organisations work. She challenges HR leaders to think creatively about apprenticeships and developmental internships - not just for social responsibility, but because stripping away these entry points threatens the future talent pipeline.   LHH's purpose is 'building a beautiful working world'; and Aly means it. She sees HR as stewards of culture, ensuring access to opportunities and development is woven into how the organisation works, not treated as a side project.   Her wish for all HR professionals: remember that we are called human resources, and the human part comes first. HR must stay at the table with business leaders, ensuring that in the rush for efficiency and quarterly results, people remain at the centre of transformation.    References: - The Future of Jobs Report 2025 | World Economic Forum   Elevating wellbeing to a strategic priority: Geoff McDonald's work Thank you to Geoff McDonald for sponsoring this episode. Geoff is a global advocate, campaigner and consultant passionate about addressing the stigma of mental ill health in workplaces. As former Global VP of Human Resources at Unilever, Geoff brings practical experience helping organisations elevate wellbeing to a strategic priority in the C-suite. In 2014, he left Unilever to devote his expertise to ending the stigma of depression and anxiety in the workplace - because he knows first-hand that talking about mental health saves lives. As a business transformation consultant and co-founder of charity Minds@Work, Geoff helps organisations define purpose beyond growth and profitability, and develop holistic wellbeing strategies that unlock true performance potential. Learn more about Geoff McDonald's work: www.geoffmcdonald.co.uk   Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?     Our book of the month for March is Don't Fix Women by Joy Burnford – a bold call to rethink how we approach gender equality in the workplace. Joy challenges the narrative that women need to adapt or be "fixed" to succeed. Instead, she shines a light on the systemic barriers and cultural norms that need to change. Drawing on extensive research including the landmark Why Women Leave study, she demonstrates that the barriers women face aren't about women at all – they're about how work is structured, managed and experienced. With published Gender Action Plans coming in next year, if you're thinking about root causes, want compelling data points for your business cases, and ideas for practical steps you can take, Don't Fix Women is the book to read. It's a timely read as we approach International Women's Day too. Grab your copy – perhaps an International Women's Day gift for yourself or a colleague. Head to UpliftingPeople.com to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book.

Lucia opens with a powerful reframe: HR sits at a unique intersection, understanding both people and business, translating strategy into everyday behaviour, and discusses how this positioning creates opportunity for both business and social impact. She shares ADP's Ada Lovelace Programme, providing STEM-education and comprehensive training to enter the labour market. With brilliant results such as a 65% workforce participation rate, Lucia is clear this isn't charity - it's smart business building talent pipelines and diverse perspectives. Lucia describes ADP's Break the Ceiling programme, sparked by a photograph of the management team: two women in a sea of male black suits. The programme showed that sponsorship, not just mentorship, drives advancement - Lucia herself benefited from this programme, advancing to her current CHRO role. Her wish for all HR professionals: feel the power to influence. Don't be afraid to challenge the status quo. And in claiming that power, HR leaders really can change the world.   What actually drives progress for women in leadership? Encompass Equality's latest research   Thank you to Encompass Equality for sponsoring this episode.   Encompass is dedicated to creating better workplaces for women and building cultures where everyone benefits.   Powered by industry-leading research into women's lived experiences at work, Encompass turns real insight into targeted interventions that improve how people work together.   Their latest research, conducted with the FTSE Women Leaders Review and Chartered Management Institute, reveals what actually works and how to make change happen in your organisation.   Download your free report from Encompass Equality   👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community      You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.       Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world      And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn         Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?     Our book of the month for March is Don't Fix Women by Joy Burnford – a bold call to rethink how we approach gender equality in the workplace. Joy challenges the narrative that women need to adapt or be "fixed" to succeed. Instead, she shines a light on the systemic barriers and cultural norms that need to change. Drawing on extensive research including the landmark Why Women Leave study, she demonstrates that the barriers women face aren't about women at all – they're about how work is structured, managed and experienced. With published Gender Action Plans coming in next year, if you're thinking about root causes, want compelling data points for your business cases, and ideas for practical steps you can take, Don't Fix Women is the book to read. It's a timely read as we approach International Women's Day too. Grab your copy – perhaps an International Women's Day gift for yourself or a colleague. Head to UpliftingPeople.com to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book.

A fun start given the title of this podcast, Armand opens with three disclaimers: he's not changing the world, he doesn't like the word 'change', and HR doesn't have a social mandate. Rather, Armand begins, the CHRO's key responsibility is driving performance and profit for the business.   Armand demonstrates his performance and data-driven approach to HR, sharing the example of leading restructuring at AkzoNobel. Providing span of control as an example metric, Armand discusses his work moving the ratio from 6.6 to 8, delivering €150 million in structural savings whilst increasing both productivity and employee engagement.   Armand shares his passion for encouraging others to achieve what seems unachievable, and he challenges HR leaders to master data and evidence, and to aim for simplicity. Host Cecilia notes, leading a workforce of 32,000 people undoubtedly has societal impacts, and suggests that, in supporting others with such ambitions, perhaps Armand is changing the world, after all.   What actually drives progress for women in leadership? Encompass Equality's latest research   Thank you to Encompass Equality for sponsoring this episode.   Encompass is dedicated to creating better workplaces for women and building cultures where everyone benefits.   Powered by industry-leading research into women's lived experiences at work, Encompass turns real insight into targeted interventions that improve how people work together.   Their latest research, conducted with the FTSE Women Leaders Review and Chartered Management Institute, reveals what actually works and how to make change happen in your organisation.   Download your free report from Encompass Equality   👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community      You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.       Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world      And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn     Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?     Our book of the month for March is Don't Fix Women by Joy Burnford – a bold call to rethink how we approach gender equality in the workplace. Joy challenges the narrative that women need to adapt or be "fixed" to succeed. Instead, she shines a light on the systemic barriers and cultural norms that need to change. Drawing on extensive research including the landmark Why Women Leave study, she demonstrates that the barriers women face aren't about women at all – they're about how work is structured, managed and experienced. With published Gender Action Plans coming in next year, if you're thinking about root causes, want compelling data points for your business cases, and ideas for practical steps you can take, Don't Fix Women is the book to read. It's a timely read as we approach International Women's Day too. Grab your copy – perhaps an International Women's Day gift for yourself or a colleague. Head to UpliftingPeople.com to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book.

Melanie explores one of HR's key levers for sustainability and social impact: pensions. Discussing how workplace pensions connect directly to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, she explains how the decisions organisations make about pension providers and investment strategies influence environmental outcomes as well as long-term financial wellbeing for employees. Reflecting on her own journey, growing up in the North East of England as the first in her family to attend university, Melanie shares why social mobility is central to her leadership. From apprenticeships and returnship programmes to widening access into corporate careers, she highlights how HR can actively contribute to SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), helping organisations unlock talent while creating meaningful societal change. Melanie encourages HR leaders to recognise the scale of their influence across business systems. By thinking beyond compliance and embedding sustainability and opportunity into everyday people practices, HR can shape organisations that deliver value for business, for people and for the planet too. References:   Career Returners - Consulting | Coaching | Network     What actually drives progress for women in leadership? Encompass Equality's latest research   Thank you to Encompass Equality for sponsoring this episode.   Encompass is dedicated to creating better workplaces for women and building cultures where everyone benefits.   Powered by industry-leading research into women's lived experiences at work, Encompass turns real insight into targeted interventions that improve how people work together.   Their latest research, conducted with the FTSE Women Leaders Review and Chartered Management Institute, reveals what actually works and how to make change happen in your organisation.   Download your free report from Encompass Equality   👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community      You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.       Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world      And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn         Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?     Our book of the month for March is Don't Fix Women by Joy Burnford – a bold call to rethink how we approach gender equality in the workplace. Joy challenges the narrative that women need to adapt or be "fixed" to succeed. Instead, she shines a light on the systemic barriers and cultural norms that need to change. Drawing on extensive research including the landmark Why Women Leave study, she demonstrates that the barriers women face aren't about women at all – they're about how work is structured, managed and experienced. With published Gender Action Plans coming in next year, if you're thinking about root causes, want compelling data points for your business cases, and ideas for practical steps you can take, Don't Fix Women is the book to read. It's a timely read as we approach International Women's Day too. Grab your copy – perhaps an International Women's Day gift for yourself or a colleague. Head to UpliftingPeople.com to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book.

Nebel challenges the traditional approach to HR: instead of siloed programmes, she advocates for systems thinking that recognises the impact work has beyond the office - for employees' work-life blend, and for society. Nebel recommends data and employee voice as starting points, to build evidence-based practices that create genuine belonging. Nebel is passionate about the relationship between work and socio-economic background. From her socioeconomic start to becoming a CPO, Nebel knows the barriers first hand. Sharing examples such as supporting people in the criminal justice system into work, Nebel reflects that the foundation of inclusion is trust, built through honest two-way communication and transparency, and that the critical CEO-CPO relationship sets the tone. Looking ahead, Nebel urges HR to step up, look up and look out. To stop being the policy keepers and people police, instead the strategic lever that enables organisations to succeed through their people. When HR truly steps into the space it belongs in, HR don't just change organisations - HR changes society. That's the real power of this profession.   References: Book recommendation: The Multi-Hyphen Method by Emma Gannon   What actually drives progress for women in leadership? Encompass Equality's latest research   Thank you to Encompass Equality for sponsoring this episode.   Encompass is dedicated to creating better workplaces for women and building cultures where everyone benefits.   Powered by industry-leading research into women's lived experiences at work, Encompass turns real insight into targeted interventions that improve how people work together.   Their latest research, conducted with the FTSE Women Leaders Review and Chartered Management Institute, reveals what actually works and how to make change happen in your organisation.   Download your free report from Encompass Equality   👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community      You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.       Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world      And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn     Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?     Our book of the month for March is Don't Fix Women by Joy Burnford – a bold call to rethink how we approach gender equality in the workplace. Joy challenges the narrative that women need to adapt or be "fixed" to succeed. Instead, she shines a light on the systemic barriers and cultural norms that need to change. Drawing on extensive research including the landmark Why Women Leave study, she demonstrates that the barriers women face aren't about women at all – they're about how work is structured, managed and experienced. With published Gender Action Plans coming in next year, if you're thinking about root causes, want compelling data points for your business cases, and ideas for practical steps you can take, Don't Fix Women is the book to read. It's a timely read as we approach International Women's Day too. Grab your copy – perhaps an International Women's Day gift for yourself or a colleague. Head to UpliftingPeople.com to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book.  

In 2025 Dentsu UK achieved Family Friendly Workplace accreditation - Nicole and Jody reveal how, alongside building a workplace culture where nearly one in six employees actively engage in their Parents & Carers ERG.   Discussing how collaboration between their Parents & Carers ERG, DE&I and HR teams drives change, Nicole and Jody share policy and support examples across fertility support, extended partner leave and visible leadership role modelling.   Jody shares her powerful story of experiencing pregnancy loss before Dentsu UK had a policy describing her decision to resign, her experience in returning, and in receiving a promotion.   With published Gender Action Plans coming in next year, this episode is packed with ideas for steps you can take to continue building your family friendly workplace.   There's more!   If you'd like more insights and the opportunity to discuss your work with Nicole and Jody, join us at the launch of From Babies with Love's 2026 Guide: Cutting Edge Family Friendly policy & practice:   ·        10th March 2026, at Clyde & Co, London ·        In person: 9:30 -11:30 GMT ·        Live Stream: 10:00-11:30 GMT   email impact@frombabieswithlove.org to request your free place today.   What actually drives progress for women in leadership? Encompass Equality's latest research   Thank you to Encompass Equality for sponsoring this episode.   Encompass is dedicated to creating better workplaces for women and building cultures where everyone benefits.   Powered by industry-leading research into women's lived experiences at work, Encompass turns real insight into targeted interventions that improve how people work together.   Their latest research, conducted with the FTSE Women Leaders Review and Chartered Management Institute, reveals what actually works and how to make change happen in your organisation.   Download your free report from Encompass Equality   👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community      You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.       Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world      And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn      Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?     February's Book of the Month with Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker as our Book of the Month – a fascinating guide to understanding the power of rest and the profound impact sleep has on our health, mood, and performance. Walker draws on decades of research to show why sleep is essential for our body, mind, and wellbeing – a gentle reminder to prioritise rest after a dark and tiring January. It's a perfect read for nurturing yourself and reclaiming energy for both your personal and professional life. Let this month's book inspire you to make self-care a priority, because even small changes to our sleep habits can transform the way we feel, think, and show up each day.   Head to UpliftingPeople.com to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book.

What if the key to retaining women has nothing to do with women - and everything to do with how your organisation actually works? Joy shares insights from her landmark Why Women Leave study of 4,000 women, revealing that the top reasons - culture, career progression, line management and workload – aren't gender-specific at all. Her research with FTSE 350 organisations uncovered something fascinating: success wasn't about what organisations were doing, but who was doing it, how, when and why.  Joy explores how inclusion leaders navigate global turbulence through three shifts: changing language from diversity to belonging, embedding equity as a golden thread through business strategy, and maintaining compliance focus.  Looking ahead, Joy shares a powerful two-minute exercise: have someone talk whilst you visibly don't listen, then start again, and this time genuinely engage. The difference is transformative. Her wish is simple: practise the listening exercise and share it.   References:   Why Women Leave research report (2023) - Encompass Equality   FTSE 350 research report (conducted with FTSE Women Leaders Review and Chartered Management Institute) - Available at Encompass Equality   The Equality Conversation - Podcast   Don't Fix Women: The practical path to gender equality at work: By Joy Burnford   What actually drives progress for women in leadership? Encompass Equality's latest research   Thank you to Encompass Equality for sponsoring this episode.   Encompass is dedicated to creating better workplaces for women and building cultures where everyone benefits.   Powered by industry-leading research into women's lived experiences at work, Encompass turns real insight into targeted interventions that improve how people work together. Their latest research, conducted with the FTSE Women Leaders Review and Chartered Management Institute, reveals what actually works and how to make change happen in your organisation.   Download your free report from Encompass Equality   👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community      You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.       Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world      And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn      Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?   We're easing into February with Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker as our Book of the Month – a fascinating guide to understanding the power of rest and the profound impact sleep has on our health, mood, and performance.  Walker draws on decades of research to show why sleep is essential for our body, mind, and wellbeing – a gentle reminder to prioritise rest after a dark and tiring January. It's a perfect read for nurturing yourself and reclaiming energy for both your personal and professional life. Let this month's book inspire you to make self-care a priority, because even small changes to our sleep habits can transform the way we feel, think, and show up each day.   Head to UpliftingPeople.com to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book.

Nico explores the evolution of HR and the future of work, sharing his vision for moving from a transactional, industrial mindset to a system-shaping function. He discusses his concept of The Great Leap, a framework for the Fusion Age where humans and machines work together, and reflects on the shift from advising on outcomes to owning them, ensuring HR drives real organisational impact.   Nico emphasises the importance of naming architectural failures, focusing on next practices rather than best practices, and designing systems that recognise human potential. Nico challenges traditional approaches to productivity and capability, highlighting that legacy systems were built for a linear age and now require fundamental rethinking to make work meaningful, equitable and future-ready.   The conversation also explores the ethical and social dimensions of HR, with integrity and responsibility at the centre. Nico introduces the human delta - the gap between current capabilities and future potential - and encourages HR leaders to take ownership. By designing systems that invest in people and make equity inevitable, HR can step onto the field and truly change the world.   References:   Rewiring the Human Delta by Nico Decock   Independent IT Research & AI Insights | Bloor Research UK     How is AI really playing out? Slalom's new research Thank you to Slalom for sponsoring this week's podcast episode. If you're an HR leader navigating AI and wondering how to move from ambition to adoption, Slalom's latest research offers practical insights you can use right away. Slalom surveyed more than 2,000 global executives to understand how AI is really playing out, where investment is translating into value, where it isn't and, what that means for leadership, skills and cross functional alignment. Download your free summary here: Get Slalom's latest AI research    👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community      You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.       Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world      And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn      Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?      We're easing into February with Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker as our Book of the Month – a fascinating guide to understanding the power of rest and the profound impact sleep has on our health, mood, and performance. Walker draws on decades of research to show why sleep is essential for our body, mind, and wellbeing – a gentle reminder to prioritise rest after a dark and tiring January. It's a perfect read for nurturing yourself and reclaiming energy for both your personal and professional life. Let this month's book inspire you to make self-care a priority, because even small changes to our sleep habits can transform the way we feel, think, and show up each day. Head to UpliftingPeople.com to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book.

Michelle reflects on her career from 20 years in the Royal Navy to the legal sector, highlighting how her military background instilled leadership qualities founded on trust and how modelling compassionate leadership improves team engagement that also creates meaningful change. Discussing how military lessons translate to professional services, Michelle emphasises the importance of developing leadership skills at every stage of a career, sharing the concept of an 'accountability ladder' to encourage every colleague to demonstrate leadership in their role. Michelle also explores the intersection of AI and human experience, highlighting how curiosity, critical thinking, and neurodiverse perspectives can differentiate organisations in ways data alone cannot measure. Michelle shares her passion for supporting the veteran and military spouse community, illustrating how inclusive talent strategies can unlock overlooked potential. She reflects on initiatives from her past roles, including improving female retention in the Royal Navy and resolving NHS pay differentials through collaborative, transparent approaches and shows how small, thoughtful interventions can have profound impact.   How is AI really playing out? Slalom's new research Thank you to Slalom for sponsoring this week's podcast episode.  If you're an HR leader navigating AI and wondering how to move from ambition to adoption, Slalom's latest research offers practical insights you can use right away. Slalom surveyed more than 2,000 global executives to understand how AI is really playing out, where investment is translating into value, where it isn't and, what that means for leadership, skills and cross functional alignment.  Download your free summary here: Get Slalom's latest AI research 👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community      You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.       Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world      And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn      Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?     We're easing into February with Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker as our Book of the Month – a fascinating guide to understanding the power of rest and the profound impact sleep has on our health, mood, and performance. Walker draws on decades of research to show why sleep is essential for our body, mind, and wellbeing – a gentle reminder to prioritise rest after a dark and tiring January. It's a perfect read for nurturing yourself and reclaiming energy for both your personal and professional life. Let this month's book inspire you to make self-care a priority, because even small changes to our sleep habits can transform the way we feel, think, and show up each day.   Head to UpliftingPeople.com to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book.   References:   The Armed Forces Covenant – The official UK‑wide pledge that organisations can sign to demonstrate support for members of the Armed Forces community, committing to treat them and their families fairly and without disadvantage. Sign the Armed Forces Covenant (UK Government)   Forces Employment Charity – A charity providing lifelong support, training, mentoring, and employment opportunities for service leavers, veterans, reservists, spouses and partners, helping connect military experience with civilian careers. Forces Employment Charity

The queen is the most powerful player on a chessboard – a queen can move anywhere - just like HR. Ewen shares why HR practitioners need to stop staying in their square and start thinking like a queen on a chessboard.   He explores how meaningful change comes through sustained commitment to human-centred approaches and shares the example of The Havas Platform, demonstrating how HR can create impact both within organisations and society.   Ewen champions transparency as foundational to trust and equity and discusses his approach to reward, including opportunities to personalise pay and benefits according to need. Framing reward as an opportunity to target support, he emphasises that social impact isn't only external and reminds us that employees may be experiencing the same issues that we see in society.  Encouraging you to "be a queen", Ewen's wish is for everyone in HR to appreciate how powerful your position is, and use that power to drive positive change.    How is AI really playing out? Slalom's new research Thank you to Slalom for sponsoring this week's podcast episode.  If you're an HR leader navigating AI and wondering how to move from ambition to adoption, Slalom's latest research offers practical insights you can use right away. Slalom surveyed more than 2,000 global executives to understand how AI is really playing out, where investment is translating into value, where it isn't and, what that means for leadership, skills and cross functional alignment.  Download your free summary here: Get Slalom's latest AI research    👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community      You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.       Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world      And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn      Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?      We're starting 2026 with Brene Brown's new book, Strong Ground, as our Book of the Month - a thoughtful guide to building resilience, connection, and clarity in a fast-moving world.    Brené draws on decades of research into courage and vulnerability to help us navigate uncertainty in both our professional lives and personal lives.    Strong Ground is perfect for the start of a new year - a reminder that small shifts in perspective can make a big difference, and it highlights the power of curiosity and intentional action.    Let it inspire you to step into the new year ready to create positive impact - because change starts with each of us, one choice at a time.    Head to UpliftingPeople.com to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book!   

Fabiola explores how real change often comes from small, human moments - conversations, deep listening and creating spaces where people can bring their whole selves. Drawing on her international career and psychotherapy studies, she shows how engaging with people relationally forms the foundation for sustainable organisational transformation.   Fabiola also highlights the power of human-centred design in organisations. By fostering improvisation and curiosity, and giving employees a voice, teams build resilience, creativity and stronger connections. Concepts such as 'the fertile void' create space for insight and innovation to emerge.   Looking ahead, Fabiola urges HR leaders to see human-centred ways of working as essential, not optional. Her wish for HR is for leaders to recognise that the health and wellbeing of their people is at the heart of everything they do.   How is AI really playing out? Slalom's new research Thank you to Slalom for sponsoring this week's podcast episode.  If you're an HR leader navigating AI and wondering how to move from ambition to adoption, Slalom's latest research offers practical insights you can use right away. Slalom surveyed more than 2,000 global executives to understand how AI is really playing out, where investment is translating into value, where it isn't and, what that means for leadership, skills and cross functional alignment.  Download your free summary here: Get Slalom's latest AI research    👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community      You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.       Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world      And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn      Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?      We're starting 2026 with Brene Brown's new book, Strong Ground, as our Book of the Month - a thoughtful guide to building resilience, connection, and clarity in a fast-moving world.    Brené draws on decades of research into courage and vulnerability to help us navigate uncertainty in both our professional lives and personal lives.    Strong Ground is perfect for the start of a new year - a reminder that small shifts in perspective can make a big difference, and it highlights the power of curiosity and intentional action.    Let it inspire you to step into the new year ready to create positive impact - because change starts with each of us, one choice at a time.    Head to UpliftingPeople.com to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book!    

Samantha cuts through the AI hype to discuss what businesses are really experiencing, including thoughts on why investment in AI is high, yet value remains elusive - highlighting challenges with legacy technology, data, governance and workforce readiness.   Emphasising the crucial role of HR in shaping the future of work, working alongside tech and data leaders and the importance of cross-functional collaboration, Samantha highlights a striking insight from Slalom's research: empathy and communication are being deprioritised, even as these human skills become more important for trust, adoption and sustainable change.   Introducing the concept of AQ and the SHIFT framework, Samantha shows how organisations can build human and cultural foundations adept at dealing with continuous change, including AI adoption.   Her practical call to action for HR leaders: connect with your CTOs and CDOs, learn from each other, and help lead a future of work that balances technology with human needs.   How is AI really playing out? Slalom's new research Thank you to Slalom for sponsoring this week's podcast episode. Slalom is a business and technology consulting firm that believes meaningful change starts with people, helping organisations turn change into outcomes that actually last. If you're an HR leader navigating AI and wondering how to move from ambition to adoption, Slalom's latest research offers practical insights you can use right away. Slalom surveyed more than 2,000 global executives to understand how AI is really playing out, where investment is translating into value, where it isn't and, what that means for leadership, skills and cross functional alignment. Download your free summary here: Get Slalom's latest AI research Thanks again to Slalom for supporting the podcast, and thank you for being a brilliant HR Changemaker, we're excited to create more positive change together this year. 👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community      You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.       Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world      And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn      Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?      We're starting 2026 with Brene Brown's new book, Strong Ground, as our Book of the Month - a thoughtful guide to building resilience, connection, and clarity in a fast-moving world.    Brené draws on decades of research into courage and vulnerability to help us navigate uncertainty in both our professional lives and personal lives.    Strong Ground is perfect for the start of a new year - a reminder that small shifts in perspective can make a big difference, and it highlights the power of curiosity and intentional action.    Let it inspire you to step into the new year ready to create positive impact - because change starts with each of us, one choice at a time.    Head to UpliftingPeople.com to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book!    

Kicking off the new year Nigel reflects on the human impact of HR, sharing his working principles: focus on what is within your control, particularly the 'how' of decision-making, and approach people with empathy and care.   Looking to the future, Nigel explores the opportunities and challenges HR faces in a world shaped by AI. He highlights the importance of human skills - relationships, empathy, connection - and shares how HR can unite purpose, people and performance to positively impact work and society.   Nigel challenges HR leaders to move from people operations to 'purpose operations', contributing to a fairer society and fostering kindness, curiosity and compassion.     Thank you to Slalom for sponsoring this episode      Slalom is a business and technology consulting firm that believes meaningful change starts with people, helping organisations turn change into outcomes that actually last.  They partner closely with leaders across HR, technology, and the business to move beyond experimentation and ensure real adoption, building the skills, data foundations, and ways of working that make change stick.  What makes Slalom different is their approach: they lead with context rather than tools or hype. By taking the time to understand what truly matters in your organisation, they connect strategy to delivery in ways that people can trust, use, and scale effectively.   To ground this work, Slalom surveyed more than 2,000 global executives to explore how AI is really playing out, where investment is translating into value, and what this means for leadership, skills, and cross-functional alignment. HR leaders navigating AI can draw on this research for practical insights to move from ambition to adoption today.   Find out more and download Slalom's AI Research Outlook 2026: https://www.slalom.com/gb/en/insights/ai-research-outlook-2026     👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community      You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.       Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world      And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn      Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?      We're starting 2026 with Brene Brown's new book, Strong Ground, as our Book of the Month - a thoughtful guide to building resilience, connection, and clarity in a fast-moving world.    Brené draws on decades of research into courage and vulnerability to help us navigate uncertainty in both our professional lives and personal lives.    Strong Ground is perfect for the start of a new year - a reminder that small shifts in perspective can make a big difference, and it highlights the power of curiosity and intentional action.    Let it inspire you to step into the new year ready to create positive impact - because change starts with each of us, one choice at a time.    Head to UpliftingPeople.com to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book!    

Celebrating an incredible milestone – this network of HR Changemakers has now donated over $1 million to vulnerable children - we bring you a special, live-recorded episode: Sir Bob Geldof, on stage with Cecilia Crossley at How HR Leaders Change the World – Live! for a fireside chat on purpose, people and harnessing your profession to drive change.   Discussing how HR can deliver people strategy for commercial businesses, and at the same time have positive impact, he reflects that "work has to be more than the exchange of effort for wages".  Sir Bob shares his story and doesn't shy away from the big issues – politics, tech, and the state of the world – but his message is clear: people have the power to drive positive change, and HR can play a pivotal role in making that happen.  From Live Aid to today, the scale of opportunity is enormous. Just as Sir Bob created a lobby that mobilised billions through music, HR has lobby of 3.5 billion – the number of employees there are in the world. Tune in for insight, humour, and a call to action for every HR leader ready to harness the power of their profession to drive meaningful, lasting change.  References:  Early Bird Ticket: How HR Leaders Change the World – Live! 11 November 2026    Thank you to Peak PEO for sponsoring this episode     Thank you to Peak PEO, your global employment and remote culture partner, for sponsoring this episode.   Peak makes international hiring simple, helping organisations overcome the barriers of entity setup, compliance and admin so global growth becomes an opportunity, not an obstacle. With real human experts - not chatbots - they handle contracts, payroll, tax filings and more, giving you the freedom to focus on growing your business.   Beyond compliance, Peak helps companies build remote cultures where global teams genuinely thrive. Their award-winning approach means they don't just advise from theory - they share what truly works in practice, supporting you to create strong connections, effective systems and brilliant employee experiences across borders.   If you're ready to hire globally with confidence and build a thriving remote culture, visit www.peakpeo.com     👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community    You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.     Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world    And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn      Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?    Each month we recommend a book that challenges, motivates and uplifts, every pick is selected to spark meaningful conversations and personal growth. We're huge fans of social enterprises, which is why we're very happy that, Soup for Good is getting a second turn as our Book of the Month.  A heartwarming collection of delicious recipes and inspiring stories from the incredible team at Cook for Good, who combat food insecurity and social isolation. Soup for Good shares the community's favourite recipes and the stories of its much-loved characters - perfect for curling up with on a chilly winter's day.   This festive season, it's a feel-good gift for friends, family, clients, or colleagues - and every penny of Cook for Good's profit goes straight back into their community programmes. Take a look at our Soup for Good festive gift bundle and brand-new seasonal hampers, full of treats ideal for Christmas and end of year gifting.  Impact-led gifts that truly show you care. We wish we could show you just how beautiful they are! Tick off your shopping list with meaningful gifts by visiting  UpliftingPeople.com today.

Mark McLane shares how curiosity, courage, and starting with small, human-centred actions have driven transformational change, from community initiatives in Michigan to the global This Is Me campaign, which began at Barclays. Mark explains the principles that guide his work, emphasising listening, learning and evolving organisational practices to support a multigenerational workforce. Using examples from M&G, he shows how simple, thoughtful adaptations, for example embedding menopause guidance into broader policies, can shift culture and deliver meaningful, positive change. He also reflects on how his personal passions inform his professional work, from creating opportunity through apprenticeships to advocating for LGBTQ+ equity, and demonstrates how inclusion can extend beyond the workplace to impact families, communities and society. His key message for HR and inclusion professionals: be proactive, and use your expertise to drive positive change across your organisation and beyond.   Thank you to Peak PEO for sponsoring this episode     Thank you to Peak PEO, your global employment and remote culture partner, for sponsoring this episode.   Peak makes international hiring simple, helping organisations overcome the barriers of entity setup, compliance and admin so global growth becomes an opportunity, not an obstacle. With real human experts - not chatbots - they handle contracts, payroll, tax filings and more, giving you the freedom to focus on growing your business.   Beyond compliance, Peak helps companies build remote cultures where global teams genuinely thrive. Their award-winning approach means they don't just advise from theory - they share what truly works in practice, supporting you to create strong connections, effective systems and brilliant employee experiences across borders.   If you're ready to hire globally with confidence and build a thriving remote culture, visit www.peakpeo.com     👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community    You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.     Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world    And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn      Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?    Each month we recommend a book that challenges, motivates and uplifts, every pick is selected to spark meaningful conversations and personal growth. We're huge fans of social enterprises, which is why we're very happy that, Soup for Good is getting a second turn as our Book of the Month.  A heart-warming collection of delicious recipes and inspiring stories from the incredible team at Cook for Good, who combat food insecurity and social isolation. Soup for Good shares the community's favourite recipes and the stories of its much-loved characters - perfect for curling up with on a chilly winter's day.  This festive season, it's a feel-good gift for friends, family, clients, or colleagues - and every penny of Cook for Good's profit goes straight back into their community programmes. Take a look at our Soup for Good festive gift bundle and brand-new seasonal hampers, full of treats ideal for Christmas and end of year gifting.  Impact-led gifts that truly show you care. We wish we could show you just how beautiful they are! Tick off your shopping list with meaningful gifts by visiting  UpliftingPeople.com today.  

Elli shares how Vanquis combines purpose with people strategy, supporting customers historically underserved by mainstream banking, while building a culture that empowers colleagues to thrive.   Elli reflects on the organisation's focus on financial inclusion, wellbeing and future skills, highlighting opportunities ahead for AI and technology to free colleagues for meaningful work, rather than replace them.  Looking ahead, Elli shares her vision for the future of work: workplaces where people feel supported and empowered to grow. She reflects on the ongoing journey of inclusion and the role of leaders in responding to societal challenges, offering practical insights and inspiration for HR leaders to create positive change inside and outside their organisations.  References: ·        Hey Girls – Social Enterprise tackling period poverty and providing sanitary products in workplaces  ·        Women in Finance Charter– promoting gender balance in financial services   Thank you to Peak PEO for sponsoring this episode     Thank you to Peak PEO, your global employment and remote culture partner, for sponsoring this episode.   Peak makes international hiring simple, helping organisations overcome the barriers of entity setup, compliance and admin so global growth becomes an opportunity, not an obstacle. With real human experts - not chatbots - they handle contracts, payroll, tax filings and more, giving you the freedom to focus on growing your business.   Beyond compliance, Peak helps companies build remote cultures where global teams genuinely thrive. Their award-winning approach means they don't just advise from theory - they share what truly works in practice, supporting you to create strong connections, effective systems and brilliant employee experiences across borders.   If you're ready to hire globally with confidence and build a thriving remote culture, visit www.peakpeo.com    👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community    You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.     Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world    And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn    Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?    Each month we recommend a book that challenges, motivates and uplifts, every pick is selected to spark meaningful conversations and personal growth. Our November Book of the Month is Humankind: A Hopeful History by Rutger Bregman. Bregman gently challenges the belief that people are inherently selfish and divisive, showing instead that at our core we are kind, generous, and ready to help one another. For anyone looking for an antidote to today's unsettling headlines, this is a brilliant, feel-good read - full of optimism, hope, and truly soothing for the soul. Head to upliftingpeople.com to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book!

Alex discusses the progressive people practices that have shaped his leadership and powered Peak PEO's growth. He shares his unconventional journey from stand-up comedy to international employment, revealing how creativity and adaptability helped him build a business that enables companies to hire talent anywhere in the world and support distributed teams.   Alex describes how and why he introduced bold ideas including a four-day work week, emphasising that change begins with passion, conviction and thoughtful experimentation. He encourages HR leaders to take small steps that build momentum and help shift organisations towards more progressive models.   With AI offering opportunities to give people more time for community, connection and wellbeing, Alex champions designing policies that enable people to thrive - trusting employees, fostering purpose and creating workplaces that benefit both people and society.   Thank you to Peak PEO for sponsoring this episode     Thank you to Peak PEO, your global employment and remote culture partner, for sponsoring this episode.   Peak makes international hiring simple, helping organisations overcome the barriers of entity setup, compliance and admin so global growth becomes an opportunity, not an obstacle. With real human experts - not chatbots - they handle contracts, payroll, tax filings and more, giving you the freedom to focus on growing your business.   Beyond compliance, Peak helps companies build remote cultures where global teams genuinely thrive. Their award-winning approach means they don't just advise from theory - they share what truly works in practice, supporting you to create strong connections, effective systems and brilliant employee experiences across borders.   If you're ready to hire globally with confidence and build a thriving remote culture, visit www.peakpeo.com     👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community    You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.     Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world    And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn    Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?    Each month we recommend a book that challenges, motivates and uplifts, every pick is selected to spark meaningful conversations and personal growth. Our November Book of the Month is Humankind: A Hopeful History by Rutger Bregman. Bregman gently challenges the belief that people are inherently selfish and divisive, showing instead that at our core we are kind, generous, and ready to help one another. For anyone looking for an antidote to today's unsettling headlines, this is a brilliant, feel-good read - full of optimism, hope, and truly soothing for the soul. Head to upliftingpeople.com to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book!

CHRO at ofi (olam food ingredients), a global food ingredients company, anchored in sustainability, that operates in over 50 countries and sources from  2.8 million farmers across cocoa, coffee, dairy, nuts and spices provides to service big food brands and manufacturers with food and beverage ingredients for a diverse range of products ranging from a plant-based latte mix to an almond based snack bar – Usha highlights how meaningful change comes from small, everyday moments – using one-to-one conversations engaging to help employees identify and apply their superpowers, creating a ripple effect across the organisation. Usha also discusses ofi's approach to DEI IDE - it's direct correlation to business performance – and talent, emphasising diversity in thought, background, and experience. She shares her practical approach to strategies showing how HR can foster a culture where individuals thrive, driving innovation and systemic change. Usha ends with advice on tackling ambitious goals by breaking them into manageable steps and celebrating small wins. She urges HR professionals to practise self-kindness, recognising that personal well-being is essential for effective leadership and for amplifying impact across teams, organisations and society.  Thank you to Staffbase for sponsoring this episode     Staffbase knows that HR leaders are driving transformation in the workplace and they're here to help.   Staffbase Communications Cloud empowers HR leaders to be transformation trailblazers, driving trust and business success in change through strategic communication. Their internal communications platform empowers companies to connect with their people, whether they're at their desks or on the front lines.   With tools that improve engagement, amplify employee voices and align everyone with your company's goals, Staffbase makes it easier for HR leaders to create and measure lasting change. Want to learn more? Head over to Staffbase.com to see how Staffbase can help your organisation thrive.     👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community    You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.     Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world    And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn      Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?    Each month we recommend a book that challenges, motivates and uplifts, every pick is selected to spark meaningful conversations and personal growth. Our November Book of the Month is Humankind: A Hopeful History by Rutger Bregman. Bregman gently challenges the belief that people are inherently selfish and divisive, showing instead that at our core we are kind, generous, and ready to help one another. For anyone looking for an antidote to today's unsettling headlines, this is a brilliant, feel-good read - full of optimism, hope, and truly soothing for the soul. Head to upliftingpeople.com to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book!

In this special episode ahead of COP30, Cecilia Crossley explores the transformative potential of collaboration between HR and Sustainability functions to drive competitive business alongside social and environmental impact. Cecilia is joined by Antoine Poincaré, CEO of AXA Climate School, with contributions from Jacky Griffiths, Director of ESG People & Culture at Grant Thornton UK; and Helen Redfern, Chief People, Communications & Sustainability Officer at Dowlais Group plc. Antoine shares examples of how climate change is reshaping HR practices, from low-carbon commuting incentives and climate-related leave to new physical and psychological risks for employees. He highlights four key areas for HR focus: decarbonisation, risk management, employer branding, and green skills.  Cecilia illustrates how HR policy and practice - from wellbeing objectives and flexible working to corporate pensions, connect to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, demonstrating that people strategy can drive tangible environmental and social impact – to the benefit of people goals. Jacky and Helen offer practical guidance on embedding sustainability across organisations. Jacky emphasises storytelling and incremental progress, and Helen highlights giving HR, sustainability, and communications equal executive voice. Cecilia closes with her 'one wish' for HR leaders: if you've not yet already, take a first step to collaborate with Sustainability peers. Thank you to Staffbase for sponsoring this episode     Staffbase knows that HR leaders are driving transformation in the workplace and they're here to help.   Staffbase Communications Cloud empowers HR leaders to be transformation trailblazers, driving trust and business success in change through strategic communication. Their internal communications platform empowers companies to connect with their people, whether they're at their desks or on the front lines.   With tools that improve engagement, amplify employee voices and align everyone with your company's goals, Staffbase makes it easier for HR leaders to create and measure lasting change. Want to learn more? Head over to Staffbase.com to see how Staffbase can help your organisation thrive.   👥 Join our free HR Changemakers community    You'll be the first to hear about each podcast episode, about our events, and receive free bonus resources that enhance your influence and impact.     Join us here: upliftingpeople.com/pages/how-hr-leaders-change-the-world    And on Linkedin: Uplifting People | LinkedIn    Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work?    Each month we recommend a book that challenges, motivates and uplifts, every pick is selected to spark meaningful conversations and personal growth. Our November Book of the Month is Humankind: A Hopeful History by Rutger Bregman A wonderful celebration of the goodness in people and the extraordinary ways we come together when it really matters. Bregman gently challenges the belief that people are inherently selfish and divisive, showing instead that at our core we are kind, generous, and ready to help one another. Humankind shares inspiring stories from history, science, and everyday life, demonstrating how small acts of trust and solidarity can spark big change in society. For anyone looking for an antidote to today's unsettling headlines, this is a brilliant, feel-good read - full of optimism, hope, and truly soothing for the soul. It makes the perfect gift for friends, family, colleagues, or clients. You can also pair it with our Humankind Holiday Gift Bundle or our brand-new hampers, filled with seasonal delights like kind-hearted chocolates, supercharged teas, and thoughtfully curated stationery. These impact-led gifts show how much you care and are perfect for spreading inspiration and appreciation this holiday season. Why not also treat your team? Send a copy along with a gift bundle, and encourage them to pass the book on and share a discussion about what they learned - a simple, thoughtful way to spark meaningful conversations at work. Head to upliftingpeople.com  to grab your copy, and we hope you enjoy this month's Uplifting Book!