Radio Show #643: Leading Through Change – HR, Engagement and the Future of Work

Guest: Peter Cheese, CEO, CIPD

In a period shaped by economic uncertainty, rapid technological change and evolving expectations of work, the role of people professionals has arguably never been more important. In this episode, we explore how the world of HR and people leadership has transformed over the last decade, and what the future may hold for organisations, leaders and employees alike. From employee engagement and organisational culture to skills, wellbeing and the growing impact of AI and automation, this conversation looks at the opportunities and challenges facing today’s workplaces. We’ll discuss whether organisations are truly putting people at the centre of business decisions, how engagement continues to influence performance and culture, and what the future of work might mean for purpose, opportunity and human connection.

Our guest this week is Peter Cheese, Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. Peter has led the CIPD since 2012, helping shape debate and thinking around the future of work, leadership, organisational culture, skills and people management. Before joining the CIPD, he spent three decades with Accenture, including seven years as Global Managing Director of its Talent and Organisation Performance consulting practice. He writes and speaks extensively on the future of work, AI, wellbeing, leadership and human-centred organisations, and has been widely recognised as one of the UK’s most influential thinkers in HR and people management. Alongside his CIPD role, Peter is also Chair of Engage for Success.

Join us as we discuss how HR has evolved, what lies ahead for the profession, the role of engagement in modern organisations, and whether we can be optimistic about the future of work in an AI-driven world.