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May 2024

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HR Unpacked: Middle East Experts Break Their Silence on Their Successes and Pitfalls www.cultureapodcast.com

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21 recent

May 13, 202439 min

How to Hire in the Property Sector with Kameron Hutchinson

In episode #20, I’m excited to welcome Kameron Hutchinson, a visionary in the world of recruitment and headhunting, who has been making waves in Dubai and beyond. As the Recruitment Director for Allsopp & Allsopp, Kameron has revolutionized how talent is sourced and nurtured in the competitive real estate industry. His dual role also sees him leading Allsopp Recruitment, where he's pioneering a technology-driven approach to connect the dots between ambitious companies and top-tier talent. In this episode, we explore his insights on what it’s like to hire for the Property sector; what he defines as the ‘right profile’ for Allsopp & Allsopp and how grit, consistency and passion can help set you apart from the crowd. We did not hold back! We explored everything from Dubai’s flourishing Real Estate market, the perception that the market is saturated with brokers and the qualities you should look for when hiring within the sector. Kameron’s Profiles:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kameron-hutchinson-119735b6/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/recruiterkam/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cultureapodcast.com

April 29, 202440 min

Talent Management and Development with Feras Zeidan

Talent and performance management and development are the bedrock of organizational success, guiding the cultivation of skills and abilities crucial for achieving goals and sustaining growth. In episode #19, I was honored to sit across the table from Feras Zeidan, a distinguished professional in Learning & Development and Talent Management. With over 25 years of global experience, Feras has made significant contributions in diverse sectors like Ed-Tech, ICT, Telecoms, Retail, and Hospitality.His expertise in leading diverse and cross-cultural teams and leveraging data and analytics for talent development has set him apart in the industry. Feras is also a CIPD Certified Trainer and a Non Executive Board Advisor, bringing a wealth of knowledge in talent management and digital transformation. Feras has a unique perspective on people development, making him a sought-after speaker and consultant. With a passion for creating and delivering engaging learning solutions that enhance performance, productivity, and retention, Feras has provided multiple industries with support in employee development. In today's dynamic landscape, businesses recognize the paramount significance of nurturing talent as a strategic imperative. By nurturing a culture that prioritizes continuous learning and development, companies not only harness the full potential of their workforce but also cultivate loyalty and engagement. Effective talent and performance management not only enhance productivity and innovation but also foster a sense of belonging and fulfillment, driving sustainable success in an ever-evolving marketplace.Feras’ LinkedIn Profile:https://www.linkedin.com/in/feraszeidan/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cultureapodcast.com

April 18, 202432 min

Cross-cultural Awareness with Hisham ElSaied

Episode #18 is an eye-opener. I’m joined by Hisham ElSaied, an award-winning global power leader in HR, renowned for his strategic acumen in driving the MENA People Strategy at Helmerich & Payne. With over 18 years of multinational HR experience across the MEA region, Hisham stands as a testament to mastering cross-cultural dynamics in the workplace. With a history working with Japanese, Canadian and French organizations, he brings a unique perspective to our conversation on navigating diverse cultural environments. His innovative approach in HR combines technical savvy with a deep appreciation for human potential, offering valuable insights for our global HR community.Link to Hisham’s LinkedIn profile:https://www.linkedin.com/in/hishamelsaied/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cultureapodcast.com

April 1, 202440 min

Wellness vs Productivity with Diego Carrete

In episode #17 my guest Diego Carrete, Chief Wellness Officer at First Abu Dhabi Bank, joins me to discuss how wellness and work come together. Diego is all about turning wellness into a key part of how companies operate, showing that taking care of health at work is good for both employees and business performance. In this episode, we talk about making wellness a big part of company culture and share easy ways to stay fit and reduce stress, even with a busy job.As the Chief Wellness Officer at First Abu Dhabi Bank, Diego works on bringing new health strategies into the workplace. He believes in making health programs that fit the busy lives of today's workers. This episode will look at how companies are starting to see health as essential for their teams and share tips on fitting exercise and stress relief into a packed workday.His approach goes beyond exercise routines, encompassing a holistic view of wellness that includes mental health, dietary guidance, and lifestyle adjustments tailored to the unique pressures of the corporate world. Join us as we delve into Diego's journey of creating a culture of health that empowers individuals to perform at their peak while maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life.Diego’s LinkedIn profile:https://www.linkedin.com/in/diegocarrete/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cultureapodcast.com

March 18, 202429 min

Learning and Development Tips with Ashirvad Lobo

In episode #16 I welcome Ashirvad Lobo, Manager - Leader Coaching at Amazon.Ashirvad has 18 years of experience in Learning and Development starting as a Trainer and moving up to training management positions. He also worked as a Training Consultant for 6 years in India and Dubai. For the last 9 years he has managed regional and global learning functions in Manufacturing, Aviation and E-commerce and plays an active role in the Learning community with dual fellowships from CIPD and LPI. He is also the co-author of the book Full of Life : Discover the path to success in your life, career and business.In this episode we chat through many L&D challenges, tips and learnings that Ashirvad has navigated throughout his career. With over 18 years of experience shaping human capital value in global corporate firms, Ashirvad stands out for his innovative approaches in performance management and skill-building. Not only does he come to the table with a global perspective but has also worked with over 10,000 professionals across 21 countries and in 2022 won the Learning Professional of the Year award in the UK.Ashirvad’s LinkedIn Profile:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashirvadlobo/Link to book:Full of Life: Discover the path to success in your life, career and businesshttps://amzn.eu/d/3PCsJ38 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cultureapodcast.com

March 4, 202444 min

Mental Health at Work with Ryan Parker

In episode #15, I sit down with Ryan Parker, Senior Tech Recruiter at Amazon Web Services, who very bravely shares with me his mental health struggles and how they had a direct impact on his work, his career progression and the steps he had to take to find better coping mechanisms.The conversation is shifting. More employees are opening up about their mental health struggles at work, moving from 23% in 2021 to 46% in 2023. This shift towards transparency is key to breaking down stigma and building a supportive workplace culture. However, there's still a gap when it comes to equipping managers with the resources and training needed to support their teams' mental health effectively.But it's not just about broadening access to care; it's about ensuring that care is inclusive. The mental health field currently faces a diversity challenge, with a majority of professionals not reflecting the varied backgrounds of those they serve. This gap underscores the importance of building a diverse network of mental health providers, which is essential for fostering better outcomes across the board.So, where does this leave us? It's clear that while we've made strides in acknowledging the importance of mental health in the workplace, there's much work to be done. Employers need to take a holistic approach, not just in offering support but in creating an environment where employees feel comfortable seeking help.This episode dives into this complex issue, with Ryan sharing his personal journey through mental health challenges. It's a conversation that promises to shed light on the human side of these statistics, reminding us that behind every number is a person navigating their path to well-being.Sharing these stories can inspire change, encourage open dialogue, and ultimately, contribute to a more understanding and supportive workplace for everyone. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cultureapodcast.com

February 12, 202440 min

How L'Oréal Recruits in the Middle East with Sanaa Ahmed

In episode #14, we dive deep into the world of Talent Acquisition at L'Oréal with Sanaa Ahmed, the Director of TA at L'Oréal Middle East and North Africa. It's Sanaa's second time joining me on cultureA. The first time, sharing her experience as a candidate transferring internally from Pakistan to Dubai with L'Oreal. This time we dive deep to uncover the world of L'Oreal's Talent Acquisition Strategy. Sanaa's journey to the top of the TA field is nothing short of inspiring, and she brings a wealth of experience and insight into one of the most competitive industries in the world: beauty and cosmetics. This episode explores the innovative strategies L'Oréal employs to attract and retain top talent, ensuring diversity and inclusion are at the heart of their efforts, and adapting to the ever-changing dynamics of the job market. Sanaa shares how L'Oréal's commitment to sustainability, corporate social responsibility, and technology-driven solutions are key to their TA strategy. We also delve into how the pandemic has reshaped recruitment and the importance of maintaining a strong employer brand. For anyone interested in the intricacies of Talent Acquisition, especially in the vibrant, diverse and complex Middle East region, this conversation with Sanaa Ahmed offers valuable insights into creating successful TA strategies that resonate in today’s dynamic work environment. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cultureapodcast.com

January 29, 202433 min

How Recruitment Works in the Hospitality Sector with Kerry Robbins

In episode #13 I host an eminent figure in the talent acquisition landscape, Kerry Robbins, Senior Director - Talent at the esteemed Jumeirah Group & Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts. With a decade-long commitment to the Jumeirah Group and an extensive background in talent acquisition and human resources, Kerry offers fantastic insights and experiences from the heart of the United Arab Emirates' luxurious hospitality industry. In her 10-year tenure with Jumeirah Group, Kerry has ascended through various positions within the talent acquisition sphere, including roles such as the Associate Director, Director, and now the Senior Director of Talent. This progression speaks to her deep knowledge and leadership in this domain. Beyond her work with Jumeirah, Kerry's roles with Al Futtaim, Mackenzie Jones Middle East, and Asda add depth to her HR journey. From retail to sales & marketing, her diverse experience can shed light on the varied facets of HR and recruitment across different industries. This episode is filled with the trends, triumphs, and tribulations she's witnessed and experienced in the dynamic world of HR. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cultureapodcast.com

January 15, 202428 min

Navigating HR Dynamics with Shanu Satiani

In episode #12, I delve into the fascinating world of business, leadership, and personal growth with Shanu Satiani, a seasoned HR leader and strategist, currently spearheading HR for META & APAC at Amazon.Shanu's journey is one of remarkable ascent through the corporate ladder, marked by strategic decisions and turning points that have shaped her career. With over two decades of experience, she's a testament to the power of adaptability and strategic foresight in the ever-evolving world of human resources.In her current role as Senior Manager for META & APAC Business Mobility Services at Amazon, and her previous roles, including the HR Risk & Compliance Lead for the Middle East & Africa, Shanu has navigated complex landscapes of compliance, risk management, and HR strategy. Her experience in the GCC as a Senior Regional HR Manager saw her pioneering people strategies that profoundly influenced leadership, organizational design, and cultural transformation.This episode will dive into the core of Shanu's experiences and insights. We explore her journey up the corporate hierarchy, discussing key moments and decisions that defined her career. Shanu will share her experiences in diplomacy, revealing how she turned potential conflicts into opportunities, a skill crucial in the high-stakes corporate world.For HR professionals and business leaders alike, Shanu will offer invaluable advice on bridging gaps and resolving conflicts within large organizations. We'll also delve into universal challenges in the workplace, discussing strategies for employees at all levels to overcome feelings of stagnation and regain control of their career trajectories. Shanu's tactical advice will be a guiding light for those aiming to drive change and implement new initiatives in such environments. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cultureapodcast.com

January 1, 202425 min

Navigating Tourism and Government Sectors with Omar Bahlool

In episode #11 I’m thrilled to host Omar Bahlool, a seasoned Human Resources Business Partner at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). Omar's expertise, deeply rooted in the UAE's culture and tourism sector, positions him uniquely to offer valuable insights into this dynamic field.With a proven track record in the government relations industry, Omar excels in strategic areas like negotiation, executive search, and leadership. His role at DCT Abu Dhabi, where he has been for over five years, centers around enhancing recruitment processes and achieving Emiratisation targets. This has allowed him to deeply understand and influence the cultural and tourism landscape of the UAE.In our discussion, we'll delve into Omar's approach to balancing local talent with the international demands of tourism, his strategies for fostering a culturally diverse workforce, and how he navigates the challenges of high turnover in this vibrant sector. Omar's unique perspective promises to shed light on the intricacies of HR within the context of UAE's rich cultural heritage and booming tourism industry.Join us for an enlightening conversation that promises a deeper understanding of the intersection between HR and cultural tourism in the UAE. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cultureapodcast.com