What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Personally or professionally? Professionally it could be summarised as 'a new starter needs to take the time to get to know the business, take the time to get to know the team, collaboratively create a measurable HR strategy to perform against and empower the team for success'. On the personal advice side, and I need to provide the context that this advice came after an almost nasty car crash in the United States where I would have been at fault: "No matter where you are in the world. The driver always sits in the middle of the road".
What challenges do you think HR will face in the next 10 years?
Talent management and retention are increasingly going to be more and more critical in my opinion. It is always interesting and enjoyable talking to friends and peers in my HR network about the various talent management programs that have been commenced, trialled, piloted, etc. In all fairness I don’t think any one company in the world has got it right at the moment…and that’s where the challenge is.
What is the most interesting aspect of your role?
I have been with DLA Piper now for almost three months and the most interesting part for me is getting to know the business and the people. As a strategic business partner it is essential to really understand the business – its challenges, people, strategy and financials.
What do you feel is your biggest professional achievement to date?
Building a high performing team. Prior to DLA Piper I worked at Vodafone Australia and
KPMG and at each place I am incredibly proud of the team my colleagues and I have built and the many achievements delivered during my time there. These have included helping to oversee a merger in my Vodafone/3 days, setting up respective HR strategies, designing new career, remuneration and recognition frameworks, and talent management programs to name just a few.
How would you sum up HR professionals in two words?
Strategic enablers.
Complete this sentence: If I weren’t in HR, I’d be… a lawyer. May as well use the law degree for something.
