Welcome to HR Disrupted, the podcast where Lucy Adams and guests reimagine traditional HR practices for a more agile, people-centric future. Each episode dives into innovative approaches for leaders and HR professionals, offering practical advice on leadership, employee engagement, and organisational culture. As CEO of Disruptive HR, the go-to agency for innovative people practices for the last ten years, Lucy brings fresh perspectives and solutions to the ever-changing challenges of modern workplaces. With years of experience as a former HR Director for major brands including the BBC, Lucy is the author of two best-selling books ‘HR: Disrupted’ and ‘The HR Change Toolkit’ . Every two weeks, join Lucy and her guests as they challenge the status quo, empowering businesses to navigate the complexities of today’s workforce with bold, forward-thinking strategies. Website: www.disruptivehr.com Join the Disruptive HR Club https://disruptivehr.com/welcome-to-the-future-of-hr/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/disruptivehr/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/disruptive_hr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hrdisruptive/ Email: hello@disruptivehr.com
Episodes
Tuesday Dec 03, 2024
Tuesday Dec 03, 2024
Discover the transformative journey of HR at NatWest through the innovative insights of Katherine O’Callaghan, Head of People Transformation. Katharine shares her experience of reshaping the HR landscape by drawing inspiration from customer experience strategies. We discuss how NatWest has innovatively adopted a "colleague goal and journey model" to enhance the employee experience.
Listen in as we explore the cultural shift in performance management and how HR teams are adapting to new, employee-centered methodologies. Agile practices and design thinking are at the forefront of this transformation, helping align HR strategies with real employee and manager insights. Katharine highlights the importance of leveraging data sources, such as pulse surveys and feedback mechanisms, to effectively capture the employee experience. This transformation reflects a significant shift towards a customer-focused approach, emphasizing experimentation and learning from pilot initiatives as key components of this ongoing cultural evolution.
Discover how technology and simplification are enhancing HR processes and empowering managers at NatWest. We discuss the role of AI tools like Ask Archie, a chatbot that integrates support across HR and IT domains and the removal of unnecessary approval layers so that managers are now empowered to make team changes autonomously.
Chapters
(00:03) Transforming HR With Colleague Goals
(11:17) Cultural Shift in Performance Management
(17:53) Shifting to Agile Performance Management
(22:31) Enhancing HR With Technology and Simplification
Katharine O’Callaghan https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharineocallaghan/
Disruptive HR
Website: www.disruptivehr.com
Join the Disruptive HR Club https://disruptivehr.com/welcome-to-the-future-of-hr/
Email: hello@disruptivehr.com
Tuesday Nov 19, 2024
Tuesday Nov 19, 2024
This week, the co-founders of Disruptive HR (and ex-CPOs themselves), Lucy Adams and Karen Moran, tackle the unique challenges faced by Chief People Officers (CPOs). They explore the scepticism often directed at CPOs and the pressure to conform to a metrics-heavy approach. They talk about the benefits of embracing a human-centric design for HR strategies and how shifting from rigid, traditional processes to adaptable, employee-centred practices, can enhance the CPO’s impact and credibility.
They discuss the challenges for CPOs of balancing operational tasks with strategic thinking amidst constant meetings and compliance demands. They share strategies to alleviate these pressures, such as empowering managers with self-management tools and adopting a product management approach for HR teams. Above all, the episode aims to equip CPOs with practical solutions to streamline their focus and enhance their influence within their organizations.
Chapters
(00:03) - Challenges and Solutions for HR Leaders
(14:01) - The Loneliness of HR Leaders
Disruptive HR
Website: www.disruptivehr.com
Join the Disruptive HR Club https://disruptivehr.com/welcome-to-the-future-of-hr/
Email: hello@disruptivehr.com
Tuesday Nov 05, 2024
Tuesday Nov 05, 2024
What unique challenges do HR professionals face in the legal sector, and how can innovative approaches transform traditional practices? Join us as we chat with Emma Stevenson, Director of Partner Relations at Clyde & Co, who takes us through her fascinating 22-year journey in HR, navigating the intricacies of managing partner relations in a global law firm. Learn how she innovated a dedicated HR function for partners within a global law firm, addressing the unique challenges of managing individuals who are both owners and leaders.
Discover how Emma's tailored coaching and pioneering initiatives like "Five Minute Mondays" and the "Retire Right" podcast have created a supportive, engaging environment for legal partners. We explore the importance of using ‘human’ language for better engagement and how innovative strategies have been positively received by partners. Don't miss this insightful conversation on driving change and empowering professionals within the legal industry.
(00:03) Innovative HR Strategies for Law Firms
(11:15) Enhancing HR Support for Law Partners
(22:20) Engaging HR Strategies in Law
Emma Stephenson https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-stephenson-942b3448/
Disruptive HR
Website: www.disruptivehr.com
Join the Disruptive HR Club https://disruptivehr.com/welcome-to-the-future-of-hr/
Email: hello@disruptivehr.com
Tuesday Oct 22, 2024
Tuesday Oct 22, 2024
Join us on this episode of HR Disrupted as we explore the innovative creation of the Commission for Tertiary Education and Research in Wales, with our special guests James Owen, Chief Operating Officer, and Fran Hill, Director of People and Culture. Our conversation covers the birth of this innovative public body, its ambitious goals for enhancing the learner experience, and its commitment to fostering collaboration among educational institutions in Wales.
Listen in as we discuss how the new organisation built its approach to people by using the unique values described in the Welsh language and how these values have been used to shape innovative approaches to HR such as human-centred recruitment and personalised onboarding experiences. Don't miss this inspiring conversation on creating a forward-thinking HR approach from the ground up.
Chapters
(00:03) - Designing a New Organisation's HR Approach
(12:55) - Living the Organisational Values Through Recruitment
(18:11) - Revolutionising Recruitment and Onboarding Processes
Disruptive HR
Website: www.disruptivehr.com
Join the Disruptive HR Club https://disruptivehr.com/welcome-to-the-future-of-hr/
Email: hello@disruptivehr.com
Tuesday Oct 08, 2024
Tuesday Oct 08, 2024
What if your HR department could transform into a beacon of sustainability? Join us for an insightful conversation with HR Director Scott Sullivan as he shares his story on becoming a key player in making Bates Wells the first major law firm to achieve B Corp certification. Scott’s diverse experience across various industries and his roles as a magistrate and charity trustee provide a unique perspective on the importance of external opportunities for HR growth. We also explore Bates Wells' hybrid work model and the innovative strategies they’ve employed to keep their dispersed workforce connected and engaged.
Discover how Bates Wells fosters a culture of sustainability through employee-driven initiatives. From vegetarian-only catering to incentivizing green energy adoption, Scott reveals how these grassroots efforts have sparked significant cultural shifts within the firm. These initiatives underscore Bates Wells’ commitment to embedding sustainability into their DNA, illustrating how employee-led actions can lead to profound engagement and a stronger organisational culture.
We dive into the practicalities of integrating sustainability into HR processes, tackling challenges like pension reform and performance management. Scott offers actionable advice on incorporating sustainability into onboarding, procurement, and recognition schemes. Whether you're an HR professional or simply passionate about sustainability, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical guidance for creating a better tomorrow.
Chapters
(00:03) HR and Sustainability
(07:46) Employee-Led Sustainability Initiatives
(16:09) Sustainable Pension Fund Implementation
(21:48) Employee Engagement in Sustainability Initiatives
(27:09) Building a Culture of Education
Scott Sullivan https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottjacksullivan/
Disruptive HR
Website: www.disruptivehr.com
Join the Disruptive HR Club https://disruptivehr.com/welcome-to-the-future-of-hr/
Email: hello@disruptivehr.com
Monday Sep 23, 2024
Monday Sep 23, 2024
What happens when an interviewer falls asleep mid-interview or a receptionist actively discourages a candidate from joining? Join Lucy and Karen, co-founders of Disruptive HR, as they recount some shocking personal stories and explore the critical importance of enhancing candidate experiences during the recruitment process.
In this episode we dissect the pitfalls of traditional interview methods and unveil innovative strategies to assess candidates effectively. Forget about the same old competency-based questions and assessment centres - how about sharing interview questions in advance or even conducting interviews in cars?! Discover how industry leaders like Microsoft and McKinsey are revolutionising their hiring processes by making candidates feel more at ease and better showcasing their real-world skills.
Tune in to learn actionable tips on improving your candidate experience, to enable your organisation to hire the best talent - and retain a positive employer brand even amongst the candidates you reject.
Chapters
Website: www.disruptivehr.com
Join the Disruptive HR Club https://disruptivehr.com/welcome-to-the-future-of-hr/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/disruptivehr/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/disruptive_hr/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hrdisruptive/
Email: hello@disruptivehr.com
Tuesday Sep 03, 2024
Tuesday Sep 03, 2024
Join us for an insightful conversation with Michael Kienle, the Global VP of Talent Acquisition at L'Oreal, as he shares his unique journey to leading global recruitment for one of the world's most iconic consumer brands. Michael discusses his transition from marketing to HR, driven by his passion for understanding and working with people.
In this episode, we also explore the challenges and strategies in global talent acquisition at L'Oreal, especially in managing the vast number of applications received annually. Discover how L'Oreal measures and improves candidate experience through initiatives like the "License to Hire" training program and the "Candidate Experience Manifesto." Furthermore, we delve into L'Oreal's commitment to diversity and youth employability with innovative programs such as L'Oreal for Youth and L'Oreal Boost, which provide professional opportunities and educational resources for young people from underprivileged backgrounds. Don't miss this engaging discussion on maintaining a people-centric approach in HR and making big brands accessible to diverse talent pools.
Find out more about innovative HR practices at www.disruptivehr.com
Michael Kienle on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kienlemichael/
Thursday May 30, 2024
Thursday May 30, 2024
Ever wondered why those tough conversations at work seem to hit a nerve every single time? In our latest episode of the Disruptive HR podcast, Karen Moran and I unravel the complexities of difficult conversations using David Rock's SCARF model. From the pitfalls of saving up negative feedback for annual reviews to the power of continuous, in-the-moment feedback, we expose the flaws in traditional performance management. Drawing from our personal experiences, we highlight why frequent, informal check-ins can transform these challenging interactions into opportunities for growth and improvement.
Additionally, we share compelling real-life stories, such as a scenario at the BBC where mixed messages created chaos, to underscore the importance of clear communication. We'll equip you with strategies to create a non-confrontational atmosphere during these tough talks by avoiding HR presence and formal note-taking. Discover how peer-to-peer learning environments like ZoomInfo's Leadership Lounge and Nova Nordisk's Manager Club can provide invaluable support. We also tackle the stress and limitations of performance improvement plans, shedding light on why they often miss the mark. Tune in for actionable insights and practical tips that will help you handle difficult conversations with confidence and empathy.
Find out more about innovative HR practices at www.disruptivehr.com
Wednesday May 01, 2024
Wednesday May 01, 2024
Join us for an illuminating conversation with Sarah Findlater, the People Director at Marks and Spencer, as she takes us through her incredible 23-year journey within the organization. From her beginnings as a personnel graduate to leading people plans for over a thousand stores and 47,000 colleagues, Sarah offers invaluable insights into building a high-performance culture. Hear how her diverse experiences in both business-facing and center of expertise roles have shaped her leadership approach and learn how she stays engaged and curious in a rapidly changing business landscape.
Discover the groundbreaking initiatives Marks and Spencer have implemented to transform employee benefits and work-life balance. Sarah shares the successes of policies like the neonatal leave, offering up to 12 weeks of paid leave for parents with babies in neonatal care, and innovative trials for flexible work weeks that have led to lower attrition rates and higher employee engagement. We also explore the impact of a job share app that enables better conversations and flexible working arrangements, emphasizing the importance of treating employees as adults and giving them control over their schedules. This episode is a treasure trove of ideas for anyone looking to create a more supportive and productive work environment.
Find out more about innovative HR practices at www.disruptivehr.com
Monday Apr 08, 2024
Monday Apr 08, 2024
Join us as we explore the concept of Agile HR and how it can revolutionise the way HR functions are delivered. Lucy Adams and Karen Moran, founders of Disruptive HR, address the traditional pitfalls of HR being overly bureaucratic and slow, often perfecting processes at the expense of addressing real employee needs. They share personal anecdotes, such as a pay and grading exercise at the BBC, to illustrate how a human-centred, agile approach can make HR more responsive and value-driven. By shifting focus from managing processes to solving human challenges, they discuss how to create a more dynamic and effective HR practice that truly supports both the organisation and its people.
Hear about the importance of designing HR products based on the end user's needs and pain points, rather than rigid, efficiency-focused models. The conversation covers working with early adopters to pilot and refine initiatives before a wider rollout and the benefits of short-term, manageable projects. Drawing examples from companies like Shop Direct and Netflix, they advocate for an agile, iterative process that favours frequent, small-scale updates over long-term, perfection-driven initiatives. Don't miss this insightful episode on making HR more agile and responsive to better serve your organisation and its employees.
Find out more about innovative HR practices at www.disruptivehr.com