HR Strategy in the Hot Seat

About HR Strategy in the Hot Seat

A podcast for HR Leaders looking to explore all the themes of HR Strategy. What's new, what's reliable, what works and what doesn't - and everything in between. Your host, Anwen Bottois from Purple Sky Consulting will be talking to specialists and practitioners to give you lots of different perspectives, view points and insights. You'll be able to join us for each episode and take away an idea that will help you and your team to have deliberate impact and be know as the internal consultants for business strategy because of your approach to developing and implementing the HR Strategy for that business.

Publisher

Anwen Bottois (Purple Sky Consulting)

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

20 Jan 2026

Latest episode

16 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   16 Oct 2026

   The Squeezed Middle with Gary Cookson

   Gary Cookson, director of EPIC HR and author of The Squeezed Middle, joins host Anwen Bottois, founder of Purple Sky Consulting, in this compelling episode. Gary brings a quarter of a century’s experience in HR and L&D to a critical discussion about the "hidden heart" of our organisations: middle management. This conversation reveals how leaders can move beyond functional task lists to support the high-value, unseen work, the emotional and relational leadership, that actually makes organisations function. The discussion explores why middle management is often an "amorphous blob", a destination role that is often misunderstood, ill-defined and squeezed by bureaucracy. Whether you are looking to reboot your leadership development or navigating the complexities of a hybrid, AI-driven workplace, Gary offers practical insights to transform the squeezed middle into a strategic asset. You’ll discover: The "Squeezed Middle" Concept: Why middle managers are vital between strategy and reality. Reclaiming Leadership Time: Why 50% of management time is lost to admin and how to create space for coaching and problem-solving. Smart Skills over Soft Skills: The importance of encouraging human judgment and nuance. The Future of Work: How to prepare managers for the rising emotional and cognitive demands of an AI-driven environment. Strategic Implementation: Why successful HR strategy depends on stakeholder relationships and influence rather than technical knowledge alone. Practical Development: Steps to create a middle management preparation program and normalise invisible work. Gary Cookson is a seasoned HR director, consultant and author dedicated to making work better for organisations worldwide. His innovative research highlights the extraordinary adaptive work done by the middle layer of organisations, positioning them as the key arbiters of culture and team dynamics. Resources & Links: Find Gary on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garycookson/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/garycookson/) EPIC HR Website: epichr.co.uk (https://epichr.co.uk/) The Squeezed Middle: How to succeed in the critical role of a middle manager (Middle Management Matters) Book available at Amazon (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Squeezed-Middle-succeed-critical-Management/dp/3111713261) and Waterstones (https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-squeezed-middle/gary-cookson/9783111713267) Find out more about more about Anwen Bottois here: https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/ (https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/) Purple Sky Consulting Website: https://www.purpleskyconsulting.co.uk/ (https://www.purpleskyconsulting.co.uk/)

2. 

   2 Oct 2026

   Is Training the Right Solution with Anne-Marie Burbidge

   When performance dips, the instinct is almost always the same: get some training in. Joining Anwen on the podcast for this episode is Anne-Marie Burbidge, who has spent over 20 years watching that instinct lead organisations in exactly the wrong direction. Anne-Marie is the founder of The Spark, a learning and development consultancy working with businesses on the people performance challenges that growth demands. With a background spanning the Royal Household, FTSE 250 companies and tech scale-ups, she brings a sharp and systems-focused lens to why organisations keep trying to train their way out of problems that training simply cannot solve. If you've ever commissioned a training programme that didn't shift anything, or found yourself on the receiving end of one that made you quietly furious, this episode will give you the language and the framework to do something different. You'll discover: Why training is one tool in the kit. not the whole kit bag How to diagnose whether you're dealing with a capability gap or a system problem before you commission anything The concept of growth friction and why rapid growth exposes people performance gaps faster than most organisations can respond Why adaptability is the meta skill that sits behind everything, for individuals, teams and organisations How to build the trust and relationships with business leaders that make it possible to push back on a training request without losing the room The importance of brand HR: what you're known for in the organisation shapes every conversation you'll ever have about performance Start with curiosity, not prescription. The problem showing up in front of you is rarely the problem you actually need to solve. Resources & Links: The Spark Consultancy: https://www.thesparkconsultancy.uk/ (https://www.thesparkconsultancy.uk/) Connect with Anne-Marie Burbage on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-marieburbidge/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-marieburbidge/) Find out more about more about Anwen Bottois here: https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/ (https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/) Purple Sky Consulting Website: https://www.purpleskyconsulting.co.uk/ (https://www.purpleskyconsulting.co.uk/)

3. 

   18 Sept 2026

   Employee Listening Strategy with Maureen Brown

   This episode is a conversation between Anwen Bottoi, host and founder of Purple Sky Consulting, and Maureen Brown, focusing on HR strategies and the importance of intentional listening within organisations. Mo, as she is known, is the CEO of Mi-Say and Managing Director of Sullivan Brown (HR Recruitment). Mo shares her journey from HR recruitment to developing a business centred on amplifying employee voices. The discussion highlights the evolution of engagement surveys and the need for a holistic listening strategy. The discussion includes the importance of aligning HR strategies with business objectives and the role of storytelling in HR reporting. The podcast delves into several key points: Intentional Listening Strategy - Mo emphasises the need for a comprehensive listening strategy that goes beyond traditional engagement surveys. Evolution of HR Practices - The conversation explores how HR practices have evolved, particularly in response to changing employee expectations and the modern work environment. Building Trust and Independence - Anwen and Mo discuss the importance of using independent partners for feedback collection to ensure confidentiality and build trust among employees. Aligning HR with Business Goals - By understanding what the leadership aims to achieve, HR can develop strategies that support these goals and drive organisational success. Challenges and Solutions - Common challenges in HR are discussed, such as the feedback action gap and the limitations of current engagement measures like Employee Net Promoter Scores (ENPS). To find out more about Mi-Say you can visit the website here: https://mi-say.com/ (https://mi-say.com/) Find out more about Maureen Brown on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maureen-brown-6844a94/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/maureen-brown-6844a94/) Find out more about more about Anwen Bottois here: https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/ (https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/) https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/) https://www.purpleskyconsulting.co.uk/ (https://www.purpleskyconsulting.co.uk/)

4. 

   4 Sept 2026

   Transforming the Experience of HR Functions with Emma Djemil

   In this episode, Anwen Bottois (your host and founder of Purple Sky Consulting) is joined by Emma Djemil, founder of Be Unstoppable, Speaker, Facilitator and Coach. Emma works with women in HR to build the clarity, courage and confidence to have real impact in their careers and beyond. Emma explains how too many HR professionals are going home from work worse than when they arrived and that it's time the function that champions everyone else's experience finally turns that lens on itself. With a background working across HR at every level, Emma brings a refreshingly honest perspective on why the function is stuck and what it's going to take to shift it. If you've ever felt the gap between the HR professional you want to be and the one the business seems to want, this episode gives you somewhere to start. The main topics include: Why HR professionals are operating from a place of proving worth rather than demonstrating value The difference between being a strategic influencer and a safety net Why contracting with the business about what HR is really there for is the missing conversation most functions never have How dropping the HR badge and showing up as a human first unlocks the relationships that drive real impact Why role modelling is HR's most underused and most urgently needed tool The victim and martyr mentality that creeps into HR teams and what to do about it Why trying to do it all alone is the single biggest barrier to effective HR strategy delivery Resources & Links: Be Unstoppable: https://site.beunstoppable.uk/e (https://site.beunstoppable.uk/)The HR Big Meet: https://thehrbigmeet.com/ (https://thehrbigmeet.com/) Connect with Emma Djemil on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/be-unstoppable/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/be-unstoppable/) HR is the function that exists to help people have better experiences of work and now is the time we start with ourselves. Find out more about more about Anwen Bottois here: https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/ (https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/) Purple Sky Consulting Website: https://www.purpleskyconsulting.co.uk/ (https://www.purpleskyconsulting.co.uk/)

5. 

   17 Jul 2026

   Coaching Skills for Human Leaders with Donna Ward-Higgs

   In this episode, Anwen Bottois (your host and founder of Purple Sky Consulting) is joined by Donna Ward-Higgs, founder of Learning Partner Solutions, where the belief is simple: people drive performance. Donna brings a refreshingly human perspective to coaching skills in the workplace and makes a compelling case for why coaching shouldn't be a bolt-on certification programme, but a built-in way of leading every single day. With a background forged on the operational front line rather than in traditional L&D roles, Donna has a rare ability to connect the theory of coaching with the realities of what managers and leaders actually face. This is a conversation packed with practical honesty about what's working, what isn't and what HR leaders need to think about before investing in a coaching culture. The main topics include: Why human skills, not processes, are the real driver of workplace performance The difference between coaching and mentoring, and why the confusion matters The hidden costs of internal coaching programmes done as a bolt-on How the major coaching accreditation bodies differ Why a coaching culture won't stick if the system isn't ready for it The role of self-awareness in developing genuinely human leaders Why clear expectations set upfront are the most underused leadership tool This episode is a timely reminder that coaching culture isn't something you can buy off the shelf. It starts with being honest about your system, clear about your outcomes and willing to role model the behaviours all the way from the top. Resources & Links: Learning Partner Solutions: https://learningpartnersolutions.com/ (https://learningpartnersolutions.com/) Connect with Donna Ward-Higgs on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-ward-higgs-8194a969/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-ward-higgs-8194a969/) EMCC (European Mentoring and Coaching Council): emccglobal.org (http://emccglobal.org) ICF (International Coaching Federation): coachingfederation.org (http://coachingfederation.org) Find out more about more about Anwen Bottois here: https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/ (https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/) Purple Sky Consulting Website: https://www.purpleskyconsulting.co.uk/ (https://www.purpleskyconsulting.co.uk/)

6. 

   3 Jul 2026

   Multi-Generational Workforces with Liz Atkin

   In this episode, Anwen Bottois (your host and founder of Purple Sky Consulting) is joined by Liz Atkin, consultant, facilitator and founder of Refreshing Comms. Liz brings a wealth of experience in workplace communication and intergenerational strategy, and in this conversation she makes the case for why HR leaders need to treat generational differences not as a problem to fix, but as a strategic opportunity to leverage. From her time as a CEO navigating a toxic culture, to years on the road working with manufacturing and engineering businesses, Liz has seen first-hand how the people side of organisations is almost always the real issue and how communication sits at the heart of it. If you're navigating friction between experienced and early-career employees, struggling to retain younger talent, or simply not sure where to start, this episode gives you a practical and honest framework for moving forward. The main topics include: Why the intergenerational workforce is now a strategic priority for HR The risks of leading with stereotypes rather than strategy How to build a shared leadership narrative around generational difference The latent potential of the midlife workforce and why it gets overlooked What Gen Z actually need from their managers — and why mentorship matters Why lateral career growth is replacing the traditional corporate ladder Designing intergenerational workshops that link to real business goals The role of co-creation in building policies and practices that stick How communication underpins every generational challenge in the workplace Where HR leaders should start if this feels like unfamiliar territory Resources & Links: Refreshing Comms: https://refreshingcomms.co.uk/ (https://refreshingcomms.co.uk/) Refreshing Comms — the book: available on Amazon and Waterstones Find Liz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-atkin-4400a9250/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-atkin-4400a9250/) This episode is a timely reminder that the organisations attracting and retaining the best talent are the ones doing certain things intentionally. Start with strategy, not stereotypes and get people talking. Find out more about more about Anwen Bottois here: https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/ (https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/) Purple Sky Consulting Website: https://www.purpleskyconsulting.co.uk/ (https://www.purpleskyconsulting.co.uk/)

7. 

   19 Jun 2026

   Performance Enhancement Systems with Roxy Allen

   In this episode, Anwen Bottois (your host and founder of Purple Sky Consulting) is joined by Roxy Allen, a workforce transformation specialist working in the gas industry, with a background spanning Agile HR, design thinking, systems thinking and socio-technical systems. Roxy shares how she has applied systems thinking to reshape how managers approach performance conversations and why starting with conditions, not targets, is the key to unlocking real organisational performance. Whether you're an HR leader trying to make sense of performance frameworks or someone looking to bring more strategic thinking into your people function, this conversation is packed with practical insights and some genuinely fresh thinking. The main topics include: Why HR functions struggle to see performance as a system The difference between managing the system and leading the people How Roxy developed and adapted the Performance Chain framework for her organisation Practical approaches to embedding systems thinking in performance conversations Where HR leaders should start if they're new to this way of working High performance isn't necessarily built through more activity but through better conditions. Resources & Links: Six Boxes Performance Thinking: https://www.sixboxes.com/ (https://www.sixboxes.com/) Agile Culture Development Matrix: https://toolkit.agilebusiness.org/agile-culture-development-matrix (https://toolkit.agilebusiness.org/agile-culture-development-matrix) Find Roxy on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/missroxanneallen/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/missroxanneallen/) Find out more about more about Anwen Bottois here: https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/ (https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/) Purple Sky Consulting Website: https://www.purpleskyconsulting.co.uk/ (https://www.purpleskyconsulting.co.uk/)

8. 

   5 Jun 2026

   Successful Engagement of External Experts with Jessica Lorimer

   In this episode, Anwen Bottois (your host) is joined by Jessica Lorimer. Jess is an expert sales training consultant with her business Selling to Corporates and is the founder of the Expert Services Directory and during this episode Jess shares advice for HR leaders on sourcing and managing external suppliers, making strategic decisions, and fostering productive partnerships that drive organisational success. Whether navigating the complexities of hiring external experts or building internal capabilities, this conversation offers practical insights to elevate HR practices and business outcomes. The main topics include: How HR can effectively source external consultants and suppliers Differentiating between interim support and specialist expertise The importance of clear briefs and honest internal discussions Building sustainable relationships with external vendors Upskilling internal teams alongside external support The role of credible directories in supplier selection Cost-effectiveness of external expertise versus internal hiring Managing junior HR staff in sourcing decisions Strategic decision-making processes in outsourcing Developing business cases to justify external investments Resources & Links: Expert Services Directory: https://expertservicesdirectory.com/ (https://expertservicesdirectory.com/) Selling to Corporates: selltocorporates.com (http://selltocorporates.com) Connect with Jessica Lorimer on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jesslorimer (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesslorimer/) This episode underscores the value of honest communication, strategic decision-making, and leveraging credible resources to optimise external supplier engagements. Find out more about more about Anwen Bottois here: https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/ (https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/) Purple Sky Consulting Website: https://www.purpleskyconsulting.co.uk/ (https://www.purpleskyconsulting.co.uk/)

9. 

   22 May 2026

   Team Climate with Sean Spurgin

   In this brilliant interview, Sean Spurgin, Learning Director at Elev-8 Performance joins Anwen Bottois, to share his journey into leadership development, the importance of team climate, and practical strategies for HR leaders to enhance organisational culture and performance. The conversation highlights the distinction between culture (the personality of an organisation) and team climate (the day-to-day mood), emphasising that while culture is challenging to change, team climate can be more easily influenced by leaders. The discussion also covers the significance of mindset, capability, and reducing friction in leadership roles, as well as the need for continuous performance conversations and psychological safety. The episode underscores the value of investing in leadership development to drive engagement and performance improvements. Key Topics The role of team climate in organisational culture Practical leadership behaviours for immediate impact The importance of diagnosing capability gaps before training Find Sean on LinkedIn here: linkedin.com/in/seanspurgin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanspurgin/) The Book: Dropping the C-Bomb: Why Team Climate Crushes Culture: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dropping-C-Bomb-Climate-Crushes-Culture-ebook/dp/B0FN4JV2MZ (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dropping-C-Bomb-Climate-Crushes-Culture-ebook/dp/B0FN4JV2MZ) Find Elev-8 Performance here: https://elev-8.co.uk/ (https://elev-8.co.uk/) Find out more about more about Anwen Bottois here: https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/ (https://expertservicesdirectory.com/directory/anwen-bottois/)

10. 

    24 Apr 2026

    Hope is a Strategy with Ian B Pettigrew

    Most leaders underestimate how a simple shift in mindset can transform teams and organisations. Ian B Pettigrew’s powerful concept: hope isn’t wishful thinking, it’s a strategy that drives real change. If you’re tired of feeling stuck amid uncertainty, this episode reveals how leaders and HR professionals can harness hope to inspire resilience, foster trust, and create thriving cultures. Ian B Pettigrew, author of Hope is a Strategy, joins Anwen Bottois (your host and founder of Purple Sky Consulting) to share why hope is an active, learnable skill, not just a feel-good sentiment. He breaks down how hope influences everything from leadership to community building, backed by over 40 years of research. Discover how top organisations and community leaders are deliberately using hope to motivate action, even in the toughest times. We explore surprising insights from Gallup’s research, Templeton’s work on resilience, and why hope is contagious a force that can transform your workplace and beyond. You’ll discover: - The active psychology of hope, how it’s about pathways, belief, and taking action - Why many leadership strategies fail because they ignore hope or rely on toxic positivity - Practical tools and how HR can embed hope into culture, trust, and communication - How to avoid performative solutions and genuinely create an environment where hope flourishes - The lessons from global community projects in Ethiopia and Uganda, resourcefulness and hope in action In a world where organisations struggle with burnout, distrust, and change fatigue, the real opportunity lies in fostering hope. Without it, teams become disengaged; with it, they thrive. This episode is essential listening for HR leaders, managers, and anyone serious about creating positive, resilient workplaces. If you’re ready to see hope as a strategic asset not just a wish, tune in now. Ian B Pettigrew is a seasoned coach, leadership development expert, and author of Hope is a Strategy. His innovative approach draws on decades of research and real-world community projects, showing how hope can be deliberately cultivated to inspire growth, trust, and impact. Get ready to unlock the true power of hope because when it’s intentional, it can transform your organisational culture and your life. Find Ian B Pettigrew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianpettigrew (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianpettigrew) Find the Hope Tips here: https://hope.tips/ (https://hope.tips/) Find out about the HR Strategy in the Hot Seat Podcast here: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hr-strategy-in-the-hot-seat/ (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hr-strategy-in-the-hot-seat/) Find out more about Anwen here: The website: purpleskyconsulting.co.uk (http://purpleskyconsulting.co.uk) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach (http://linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach)

11. 

    10 Apr 2026

    Low-Level Conflict in Organisations with Fiona Kearns

    Most organisational conflicts are invisible, and costly. Fiona Kearns joins Anwen Bottois (your host) to reveal how small, overlooked 'politeness' issues can escalate into toxic environments, affecting productivity and morale in ways leaders often miss. All impacting individual and organisational performance, critical for the HR Strategy. If you've ever wondered how minor disagreements snowball or why high-performing teams struggle with communication, this episode is for you. Fiona, a business psychologist with a tech and telecoms background, shows you how to spot the warning signs of low-level conflict and turn them into opportunities for stronger, healthier workplaces. You’ll discover: Why 'politeness' can be a form of avoidance and how to confront it effectively The hidden power dynamics behind small frustrations and microaggressions Practical action based on having more honest, low-stakes conversations that prevent bigger issues How to build a culture where feedback and conflict are seen as opportunities, not threats Actionable steps for HR and leaders to model open dialogue and strengthen team trust In an era where organisational health directly impacts profitability, ignoring small conflicts is a risk you can’t afford. Fiona explains why addressing the 'small stuff' can prevent costly disruptions, reduce turnover, and foster a more engaged, resilient workforce. Perfect for HR leaders, managers, and executives eager to create workplaces built on trust and transparency, because clear, honest conversations are the foundation of high performance. When you master the art of meaningful communication, you unlock extraordinary growth, innovation, and team cohesion. Tune in to learn how to turn polite avoidance into powerful leadership, because stronger conversations make stronger organisations. Fiona Kearns is a business psychologist specialising in leadership, organisational culture, and high-performance teams. She’s passionate about unpicking hierarchical barriers to create more open, human-centered workplaces. Find Fiona here: The website: kearnsconsultancy.com (http://kearnsconsultancy.com) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/fionakearns (http://linkedin.com/in/fionakearns) Find out more about Anwen here: The website: purpleskyconsulting.co.uk (http://purpleskyconsulting.co.uk) LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach (http://linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach)

12. 

    27 Mar 2026

    What is HR Strategy? Part 2: Operating Strategically in HR

    What does it really mean to operate strategically as an HR leader? If you’ve ever felt stuck refining your impact, this episode unlocks six core behaviours and approaches that transform your role from tactical to strategic. Anwen Bottois, from Purple Sky Consulting, dives deep into the essential mindsets, relationships, and communication strategies that elevate HR from a support function to a key strategic partner. Discover how understanding the true problem, beyond surface issues, can make or break the success of your initiatives. She shares approaches, like analysing the system each solution operates within, and emphasises the critical role of stakeholder relationships in unlocking organisational change. Operating strategically isn’t about a single skill; it’s about cultivating a growth-oriented mindset across six key areas. Anwen’s insights help HR professionals assess where they stand, identify gaps, and develop a deliberate plan to elevate their strategic influence, plus she offers a self-assessment tool you can use immediately. This episode is perfect for HR leaders aiming to accelerate their development, solidify credibility, and become indispensable to their organisations’ success. If you’re ready to stop managing in chaos and start leading with vision and impact, tune in now and start transforming your HR approach today. Anwen Bottois is an HR strategist and leadership consultant known for helping HR professionals unlock their strategic potential through practical frameworks and leadership development. Get ready to reframe your mindset, build stronger relationships, and demonstrate impact like never before. Find Anwen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/) Find all episodes here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/hr-strategy-in-the-hot-seat/id1870588503 (https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/hr-strategy-in-the-hot-seat/id1870588503)

13. 

    13 Mar 2026

    What is HR Strategy? Part 1: Strategy Execution

    HR Strategy Insights: Executing and Operating Strategically In this episode, Anwen Bottois shares her perspective on HR strategy, focusing on how HR functions can effectively execute strategy and what it truly means to operate as a strategic HR professional. Whether you're an HR leader or a professional looking to elevate your strategic impact, this discussion offers practical insights and frameworks to help align HR activities with overall business success. Anwen invites you to share your perspective on HR Strategy execution. Key topics - The relationship between HR strategy and overall business strategy - The importance of executing HR strategy effectively - Key components of HR strategy execution: development, translation, implementation, and review - The role of HR in shaping organizational direction through strategic solutions - How to evolve HR strategies based on lessons learned and organizational feedback - Skills, behaviors, and mindset required for HR to operate strategically - The significance of leadership involvement and communication in strategy initiatives - Reflecting on success and barriers to improve future strategic efforts - The transition from management to strategic leadership roles in HR Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to this solo episode and its purpose 00:33 - Anwen introduces the concept of prompts for conversation and reflection 01:08 - Her background and experience in HR strategy and leadership 02:04 - Why HR strategy should be aligned with business strategy 03:14 - The significance of understanding what HR strategy is and its core elements 04:23 - The importance of HR being part of organisational shaping and growth 05:49 - Focusing on strategy execution and how HR contributes 06:50 - Key elements of HR strategy execution from development to review 07:20 - Shaping the organization's direction through strategic solutions 08:48 - Translating strategic priorities into day-to-day activities 09:40 - The impact of change, engagement, and communication in execution 10:58 - Implementing and supporting solutions effectively 11:29 - Reviewing, learning, and iterating on strategy outcomes 12:10 - Identifying gaps and adjusting HR actions accordingly 13:08 - Engaging leadership and teams in ongoing strategic conversations 14:33 - Celebrating successes and learning from barriers 15:30 - The continuous evolution of HR strategies 16:41 - A preview of the next episode focusing on operating strategically in HR 19:04 - The speaker shares her personal journey and leadership development focus 21:57 - Closing remarks and call to action for listeners to connect and engage Find Anwen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/) Find all episodes here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/hr-strategy-in-the-hot-seat/id1870588503 (https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/hr-strategy-in-the-hot-seat/id1870588503)

14. 

    27 Feb 2026

    Leading without Leaders with Danny Wareham

    Unlock the secret to truly impactful leadership: when the leader isn't in the room, culture takes over. Discover how aligning behaviour with your organisation's North Star can transform your company from the inside out. If you're tired of reactive decision-making, misaligned teams, and superficial values, this episode will nudge you towards creating a culture that drives real results even in complex, chaotic times. (http://times.In) In this brilliant conversation, Anwen Bottois (your host) is joined by organisational psychologist Danny Wareham reveals why culture is often seen as an afterthought and how to shift it into a strategic advantage. You'll learn why traditional leadership models fall short in today’s volatile environment. Danny shares practical frameworks and mindset shifts, including the need to craft a compelling vision that guides alignment and behaviour. We break down the importance of a clear North Star that anchors behaviours, making tough choices easier and ensuring everyone is pulling in the same direction. Plus, hear why HR's role should go far beyond policies, becoming the strategic partner that shapes the culture your organisation needs to thrive. Failing to embed genuine purpose and aligned behaviours can lead to strategic drift, disengagement, and even societal harm. But by walking your talk and measuring impact through consistent behaviours, you'll unlock not only better business performance but a more positive societal footprint. This episode is perfect for HR leaders eager to future-proof their organisation, this episode fuels your leadership with actionable insights to walk your North Star, shape culture proactively, and navigate uncertainty with confidence. It’s time to shift from reactive to strategic. Find Danny on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-wareham/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-wareham/) On via his website: https://firgun.co.uk/ (https://firgun.co.uk/) Buy his new book: https://amzn.eu/d/07qLB0cw (https://amzn.eu/d/07qLB0cw) Find Anwen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/) Find all episodes here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/hr-strategy-in-the-hot-seat/id1870588503 (https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/hr-strategy-in-the-hot-seat/id1870588503)

15. 

    13 Feb 2026

    Culture for High Performance with Paula Brockwell

    In this episode of the HR Strategy in the Hot Seat, Anwen Bottois (your host) is joined by Paula Brockwell (the Employee Experience Project). Join us in unlocking the secret to transforming your company’s performance by redefining what culture (and culture work) truly means, going beyond just happy employees. You’ll discover why a focus on strategic behaviour and performance drivers is the missing piece in many organisations’ success stories. If you're an HR leader tired of chasing fleeting engagement metrics and ready to create a culture that actually powers results, this episode is your game changer. Paula Brockwell, an occupational psychologist and founder of the Employee Experience Project, reveals how organisations can shift from superficial employee happiness to cultivating the right environment for sustained high performance. She explains why culture is about much more than just feeling good, it’s about enabling teams to show up in the ways that directly impact business success. You’ll learn how to steer conversations with your executive team toward strategic behaviour, how to design cultures in line with your unique context, and why the idea of “creating happiness” can sometimes hold companies back. We break down concrete frameworks, like Paula’s driver model, which predicts 62% of observed behaviour within an organisation based on environmental cues. She shares actionable tactics for HR leaders to redefine their culture conversations, from understanding the real drivers of behaviour to managing the psychological contract effectively. Discover how leaders can shift from a comfort zone of mediocrity to a stretch zone that fosters growth, accountability, and true organisational agility. Struggling with resistance from leadership or feeling boxed in by outdated ideas? Paula’s insights empower HR professionals to influence beyond their traditional remit, encouraging proactive, performance-driven cultural strategies. Ignoring these principles risks stagnation, but embracing them opens the door to a resilient, high-performing workplace that aligns business goals with a healthy, sustainable employee experience. This episode is perfect for HR leaders, executives, and culture champions eager to go beyond surface-level engagement. This episode offers the tools to make culture a strategic lever for real results. If you want your organisation to thrive in a complex world, understanding and applying these insights will position you as a true driver of performance, a critical component of any successful HR Strategy. Find Paula on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulabrockwell/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulabrockwell/) The EX Project website here: https://theexproject.com/ (https://theexproject.com/) The Paper Mentioned: Harness Your Culture for Performance: https://share.google/gYh51VHVVu7bWMyWr (https://share.google/gYh51VHVVu7bWMyWr) Find Anwen on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/)

16. 

    30 Jan 2026

    HR Leadership Mindset for Success with Tom Emery

    Welcome to the HR Strategy in the Hot Seat Podcast! In this first episode, I'm joined by Tom Emery for Hex Development and we are diving into a critical factor of success for HR Leaders, the mindset they bring and lead with. How HR Leaders show up influences how they organisation responds to them and how they best influence for maximum impact. Tom Emery, from Hex Development is a seasoned HR leader and consultant, and he shares his insights on the critical role of mindset in HR strategy. He emphasises the importance of viewing HR as an integral part of business strategy, the need for HR leaders to embrace their agency, and the power of curiosity and incremental influence. We discusses the shift from a service-oriented mindset to one focused on impact and innovation, and the necessity of learning from mistakes to foster a culture of growth. The conversation concludes with actionable takeaways for HR leaders to enhance their effectiveness and influence within organisations. You can find Tom Emery (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-emery-b8809818/) and Hex Development (https://www.linkedin.com/company/hex-development/about/) on LinkedIn. Here's the website (https://www.hex-development.com/). Thank you for joining the HR Strategy in the Hot Seat Podcast! I'm your host, Anwen Bottois (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwen-bottois-leadership-coach/), and my business is Purple Sky Consulting (https://www.linkedin.com/company/purple-sky-consulting/). I'm an HR Strategy and Leadership Coach and I specialise in Leadership Promotions. I love working with leaders and I really am enjoying working with HR Leaders to develop as strategic leaders.

17. 

    20 Jan 2026

    Trailer for the HR Strategy in the Hot Seat podcast

    Welcome to the Trailer for the BRAND NEW podcast: HR Strategy in the Hot Seat!

Contact HR Strategy in the Hot Seat

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.