Build vs. Maintain: Transforming HR Strategy for Uncertain Times with Mary Faulkner

HRchat Podcast

What does it take to transform HR while navigating uncertainty? Mary Faulkner, Principal at IA, returns to the HR Chat Show to share powerful insights on sustainable transformation, strategic HR, and creating adaptable organizations.
Mary's journey from aspiring stunt car driver to HR transformation expert began with a passion for statistics and continuous improvement. Her unique "build vs. maintain" philosophy emphasizes the importance of questioning the status quo without changing for change's sake. "You need to create an environment which that is OK," Mary explains, highlighting how leadership must establish "permission to question, permission to think differently." This balance between innovation and thoughtful implementation becomes especially crucial during turbulent times.
Drawing from her extensive experience solving "big messy problems," Mary shares fascinating examples of global HR implementations where standardization meets localization. Her work with multinational organizations reveals the complexity of balancing global consistency with local requirements—especially in regulatory environments like the United States. "We very much believe that you should be as standard as possible and as different as required," she notes, capturing the nuanced approach needed for sustainable transformation.
Perhaps most valuable is Mary's insight into HR's role as an organizational bridge-builder. She emphasizes that effective HR leaders must be "bilingual"—fluent in business operations while advocating for workforce needs. Understanding how a company makes, saves, and spends money allows HR to translate strategic objectives to the individual level, ensuring organizational success and employee wellbeing align rather than conflict.
As organizations face continued economic uncertainty, Mary offers practical wisdom for the path forward: focus on process optimization, creative workforce management, and building resilience. Connect with her on LinkedIn or at iatransforms.com to continue the conversation about transforming HR for tomorrow's challenges.

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Chapters

1. Introduction to Mary Faulkner (00:00:00)

2. Mary's Journey into HR (00:01:49)

3. Build vs. Maintain Philosophy (00:03:22)

4. Tackling Complex Global HR Challenges (00:07:38)

5. HR's Role in Bridging Strategy and Culture (00:11:40)

6. Current Trends and Future Outlook (00:14:11)

7. Disrupt HR and Industry Events (00:19:15)

8. Closing and Contact Information (00:22:07)