My brilliant career – Susi Petherick

From my pre-HR life I have a BA Hons in European Studies and a social work diploma. I have UK HR qualifications – diplomas in HR and in training management – and an Australian Cert IV.

Why and how did you get into HR?

Not deliberately! When I was still living in Scotland I moved to a company to lead the training side of a large change project. On my first day it was clear that there was no one in an HR function so I found myself taking it on. I dealt with union negotiations, redundancies, winning the key opinion formers over and all of that. A wonderful head of operations, informal networks and some speed reading helped fill in some pretty large gaps at first, followed by a professional HR qualification and more formal HR networks.

Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?

Hopefully still here at Weight Watchers looking back with my great team on some real tangible successes in the people management side of the local business that have resulted in even more business success. I imagine I’ll still have a long ‘to do’ list, more projects in mind than time really allows, still feeling passionate about the business and the difference we make in the lives of so many people. As a member of our global HR team too, I’m hoping to have made a significant contribution to our people development strategies and practices in Weight Watchers globally.

What has been your biggest career high so far?

The change project in Scotland I talked about earlier was described as the most successful change of its kind nationally, achieving wonderful outcomes for consumers and employees, avoiding any kind of industrial action. Also, winning an Investors in People Award for our people management practices. Having an inspiring visionary boss and a great senior team with each of us complementing each other’s skills beautifully all made the difference for me at that time. It was that defining experience that led to my commitment to a career combining both HR and training.

What do you think it takes to succeed in HR?

A passion for making a difference in the business you are in, the ability to keep the big picture in mind, a willingness to do the hard things that are needed to make change happen, a commitment to ethical practice and a willingness to be a lone voice sometimes. It also requires the ability to feel the pulse of the company, tenacity, being a solution finder rather than a problem describer and of course, all those essential interpersonal, influencing and communication skills.

How do you manage relationships with senior executives?

Remembering that people are as committed to the business as I am, especially when we find ourselves in very different positions on issues – trying hard always to appreciate how the world looks from their shoes (especially when their world view couldn’t be more different from mine). Remembering that every conversation with these senior peers of mine is an opportunity to strengthen our working relationship – or not!

Who is your biggest professional inspiration?

A Buddhist monk I know called Bhante Sujato. I am always inspired by people who really walk the talk and Bhante Sujato is my most consistent reminder of the power of this – be the change you want to see.

What advice would you give to graduates considering a career in HR?

Really know what the important drivers of the business are – if you can focus on business results and show a deep understanding of, and empathy with, the business it makes all the difference.

Be someone who says “yes” rather than “no”. HR people too often are seen as the people who stop you doing things. Be an enabler rather than a blocker. Get lots of different experiences and learn from every one of them – some of the worst bosses can provide some of the most powerful opportunities to learn.

Describe yourself in three words

Passionate, future-focused, optimistic.

Are you a candidate for my brilliant career? If so, send an email to [email protected]