HR Uprising February Highlights

Even though February is the shortest month of the year, we’ve accomplished an incredible amount at HR Uprising! This month, we hosted four remarkable speakers in our series, ‘The Career Journey of a CPO,’ each bringing unique insights and experiences from their diverse HR backgrounds. We’ve covered topics ranging from the role of HR in animal welfare to the use of HR analytics, featuring speakers with a broad spectrum of experiences. A big thank you to all our speakers this month for their fantastic contributions! If you missed any episodes, now is your chance to catch up on these informative discussions!

Episode 3: RSPCA- with Caroline McCague

Lucinda is joined by Caroline McCague, the Director of People and Culture at the RSPCA. Over the years, Caroline has played a transformative role in guiding the 200-year-old charity through its unique challenges in animal welfare. A key focus of her leadership has been on the importance of employee well-being and inclusivity, crucial for furthering the RSPCA’s goals. She shares, “Transitioning from a corporate sector to a mission-driven organisation necessitated a shift in mindset to fully embrace and lead with purpose.”

Throughout the episode, Caroline discusses the cultural shifts within the RSPCA, aiming toalign the organisational practices with the broader mission of animal welfare. She highlights how investing in the staff’s mental and emotional health not only fosters a supportive work environment but also enhances the charity’s capacity to fulfil its mission effectively. Her approach to HR is a key theme, as she explores how strategic decisions can support sustainable growth and a positive impact on both people and animals.

Episode 4: Eversheds- with Andrew Webster

Lucinda is joined by Andrew Webster, a Senior People Analytics Manager at Evershed Sutherland, to discuss the evolving field of HR analytics and its significance in modern organisations. Andrew shares insights from his career journey, highlighting his transition from a mathematics teacher to a key player in HR analytics, where he focuses on transforming data into actionable insights. He also discusses the importance of using tools like Power BI to visualise data and support strategic decision-making within HR

Throughout the episode, Andrew delves into how data analytics can effectively predict trends in employee turnover and performance, enabling HR to take proactive measures. He also touches on the emerging role of AI in HR analytics, which streamlines reporting and enhances the speed and accuracy of deriving insights. His journey of self-discovery regarding his neurodiversity is a poignant part of his narrative, highlighting how personal insights can influence professional excellence and innovation in analytics. 

Episode 5: NCFE- with Helen Ketteringham

Lucinda is joined by Helen Ketteringham, the Chief People Officer at NCFE, an education charity based in the North East of England. Helen reflects on her diverse 20-year career in HR, spanning from retail to financial services, and how these experiences shaped her approach in her current role. She emphasises, “Stepping into this role at NCFE required a blend of steadfast purpose and the agility to navigate leadership uncertainties.” Helen discusses the significance of fostering a coaching culture and embracing continuous learning within an organisation. She believes these elements are crucial for personal and professional development, and essential for navigating the complexities of modern workplaces.

Throughout the episode, Helen explores the importance of being comfortable with uncertainty, especially in leadership positions within HR. She also shares how adopting a mindset that views change as an opportunity can drive innovative solutions and improve organisational outcomes.

Episode 6: Cisco- with Jen Scherler

Lucinda is joined by Jen Scherler, the Global Head of Country Consultants at Cisco, who shares her professional evolution and insights from managing HR activities across 95 countries. Jen discusses the challenges of ensuring compliance and navigating a diverse cultural landscape. She emphasises, “The transition from an individual contributor to a leader of leaders necessitated enhancing my ability to build relationships and foster a collaborative environment”. She stresses the value of strong internal relationships; these are crucial for understanding various organisational needs and fostering a collaborative, positive work environment.

Throughout the episode, Jen reflects on the significance of viewing individual contributions within the broader organisational ecosystem, which aids in strategic thinking and understanding role interdependencies. She also discusses the invaluable support from mentors and advocates who provide feedback and encouragement, essential for building confidence and overcoming challenges.

February has flown by and we hope you’ve enjoyed the array of discussions and guest insights as much as we have. As we move into March, we’ll continue to spotlight the careers of leading HR professionals, bringing you more inspirational stories and insights into HR innovation. Keep an eye out for what’s coming next!