Managing the people-related needs of major acquisitions. Being D&I advocates for under-represented minority groups. Recruiting literally hundreds of new employees within tight time frames. Relaunching brands while dealing with major industry disruption. These are just a few of the major achievements of this year's group of stellar HR professionals.
HRD's annual Hot List has become a byword for HR excellence and best practice. The 25 HR professionals profiled here continue to enhance HR's reputation both within their own businesses and in the wider business world.
This talent group would no doubt agree that it's a fascinating, if not slightly daunting, time to be in the profession. After years of struggle to be taken seriously at executive and board level, most HR professionals are today acting as trusted advisers to their businesses.
Indeed, it's remarkable how many people profiled in this year's Hot List specifically mentioned to HRD the importance of being seen not just as HR professionals – and therefore good at the ‘people stuff ’ – but also as good as business full stop. HR professionals today must look through a lens that views their role in the context of broader business operations. They must know the key business drivers while also excelling at all items traditionally viewed as HR's responsibility. From breakthrough strides in D&I to negotiating with unions, through to ensuring their teams keep up with both technology and changing employee expectations, this year’s Hot List is jam-packed with talented, passionate and successful business leaders.
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