The HR Director
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We must rethink leadership capability, succession and power
Leadership authority is no longer fixed, hierarchical or guaranteed by title. In today’s volatile, AI-mediated and matrixed organisations, influence shifts by context, expertise and trust. This piece explores why traditional leadership and succession models are breaking, the hidden human cost of getting it wrong, and how HR must redesign power, capability and governance to lead effectively when authority becomes situational. -
When employees upskill themselves, who really benefits?
When employees voluntarily develop new skills, HR typically asks one question: how does this make them more capable? It is the right question, but only half the story. The other half is what proactive upskilling does for the organisation. Drawing on social capital research, this piece argues that self-directed learners build internal networks, earn relational trust, and generate shared understanding without being asked. The implications for HR learning strategy are significant. -
Eight simple steps to better stress management
April is Stress Awareness Month, offering a chance to pause and reflect on how everyday pressures affect our wellbeing. Emma Willars from Bright Horizons Work+Family Solutions shares eight practical, manageable ways to help reduce stress and build healthier habits. -
How to be a carer friendly employer
Alongside being a mum, I work in HR as a business partner. I understand my employment rights, the assistance I’m entitled to, and how to seek support. But some working carers may not have the knowledge or confidence to do the same. For those already stretched, that pressure can take its toll. When carers are well supported, they are more likely to be present at work and perform well. As both a mum to a disabled child and an HR professional, here are some of the lessons I’ve learned about what good support for carers looks like. -
If employees were as loyal as football fans
Most organisations say they want loyalty. Football clubs show how it is built – and why leaders should be careful not to take it for granted.
