HR Tomorrow: Fostering Growth and Inclusion with Nicola Pattimore, Chief People Officer & Transformation Lead.

A Deep Dive with Nicola Pattimore on HR’s Evolving Landscape

In our ongoing HR Tomorrow series, our director at evolve , Christine Carey , had the pleasure of conversing with Nicola Pattimore , Chief People Officer & Transformation Lead.

Nicola's background is both rich and diverse. Nicola's journey began on the Barclays graduate programme, with a humble start at Mcdonalds' during her university years. An alumnus of Royal Holloway & Bedford, part of London University, her studies in history helped shape her analytical approach.

When asked about the challenges facing HR, Nicola’s response was imbued with optimism:

"Coming out of Covid, the role of the people office has been valued more than ever."

She underscored the strategic importance of HR, highlighting the alignment between strategy, culture, and leadership as pivotal. Citing a favourite quote, Nicola mused, "Culture eats strategy for breakfast" implying that organisational culture holds precedence.

She emphasised the evolving challenges like strategic workforce planning, talent management, leveraging technology, and adapting post-covid cultures. On the importance of adjusting to technology and AI, she mentioned:

"What are tomorrow's problems due to technology, but how will technology help solve tomorrow's business issues?"

It's a balance that HR professionals must strike.

Reflecting on her role's evolution, Nicola recounted her departure from Equiniti and stressed her current responsibilities.

"Now, my role is balancing the strategic and operational"

A significant part of her work revolves around connecting with colleagues across all levels and regions. She describes HR and her role as a "contact sport" emphasising the need for connection and understanding within the organisation.

Discussing technology's challenges for HR, Nicola believes in proactive adoption and understanding, insisting that HR professionals must be at the forefront of the AI/technology transformation. The greatest challenge, she mentions, is guiding the organisation through the change necessitated by technology and AI.

Nicola's thoughts on managing diversity and inclusion are rooted in continuous education and trust. She believes that DEI should be approached as a cultural shift and be integral to the company's overall strategy.

"HR needs to be the champion and advocate of DEI practices and culture"

She states, emphasising its importance in every sphere of organisational life.

In terms of HR strategies for talent management, Nicola highlighted the significance of clear employee value propositions and transparency in recruiting. Key to retention, in her view, are rewarding strategies and opportunities for growth and development.

Nicola gauges her daily performance through feedback, tracking people metrics, engagement surveys, and other established listening channels in the organisation.

Offering advice to HR professionals, Nicola emphasised focus, listening, forward-thinking, and advocacy. She highlighted the role of HR as the cultural custodian, urging professionals to be inclusive and think strategically about the future.

Nicola Pattimore’s insights bring to light the transformative role of HR in navigating both present challenges and those on the horizon. Her depth of experience and strategic vision serves as an invaluable guidepost for those navigating the intricate world of HR.

Stay connected with our HR Tomorrow series as we delve deeper into the minds of industry leaders, charting the future of HR.

Together, let's continue evolving.

About?Christine Carey , Director,?evolve

With over 20 years in the recruitment industry the last 10 years focused on HR and C-Suite appointments, I have recently moved within the?InterQuest Group ?and joined the evolve business which will enable me to offer a broader range of recruitment solutions to all my clients.

Are you ready to engage with industry leaders, gain exclusive insights, and expand your network?

As part of our commitment to deepening the HR conversation, we're delighted to invite you to our open discussion roundtables.?

Be a part of the conversation about the future of HR.?Get in touch with?Christine Carey ?for more details.?

We look forward to exploring the HR landscape with you, as we continue to evolve together in this dynamic field.

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