As the HR profession continues to evolve, the competencies required for effective HR leadership are quickly becoming more complex and wide-ranging. 

In AHRI’s latest podcast episode, host Beth Hall FCPHR, speaks with Tiffany Blight CPHR, First Assistant Secretary – People and Culture at the Department of Home Affairs, about how practitioners can arm themselves with the right skills to thrive in HR leadership roles.

In this episode, you'll learn:
*Key capabilities for aspiring HR leaders
*Practical steps to build these skills and experiences
*Tips for positioning yourself for leadership roles in HR.

SHOW NOTES
Let us know what you think of the podcast so far. Take our 2-minute survey to share your feedback with us:⁠ ⁠https://bit.ly/47yzZiN⁠⁠
⁠⁠Access the episode transcript here⁠ – https://bit.ly/3zpjp8p⁠
🧠 Learning opportunities
Become a⁠ ⁠Certified HR Practitioner ⁠⁠and signal to your community that your HR skills are in line with globally benchmarked best-practice HR – https://bit.ly/3MZnnre
Learn how to overcome stakeholder resistance with⁠ ⁠this short course from AHRI – https://bit.ly/3MR1dro⁠⁠
Hone your leadership and management skills with⁠ ⁠this short course from AHRI – https://bit.ly/3U1REKj⁠⁠

📚 Further reading
The Mentor: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3zuXOLS⁠⁠ 
The Diary of a CEO: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4e9Fs1Z⁠⁠
Mastery by Robert Greene: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3ZuHjdh⁠⁠
Amplifiers by Matt Church: ⁠⁠https://amzn.to/4ecJE0K⁠⁠
Nudge by Cass R. Sunstein and Richard H. Thaler: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/47zpDyY⁠⁠
Yes! by Noah Goldstein, Steve Martin and Robert B. Cialdini: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3zrtzFA⁠⁠
Influence by Robert B. Cialdini: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3Xz4NeA⁠⁠
Atomic Habits by James Clear: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/47G8BPN⁠⁠
Surrounded by Idiots by Thomas Erikson: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3XBWgYl⁠⁠
The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell: ⁠⁠https://amzn.to/3MZmJKk⁠⁠

⭐ Member-exclusive content
AHRI members can Join the⁠⁠ ⁠AHRI LinkedIn Lounge⁠⁠⁠ to connect with your peers and for access to a member-exclusive bonus episode.

🤳 Connect with us
⁠Connect with AHRI on⁠ ⁠LinkedIn⁠: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3XREBgu
Connect with Tiffany Blight FCPHR on⁠ ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠: https://bit.ly/3XSTxeq

How to prepare for an HR leadership role with Tiffany Blight CPHR

In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of deep listening and how it can elevate diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) strategies beyond surface-level intent. 

Liz Griffin, a seasoned DEI leader with experience at Qantas, Commonwealth Bank, EY and Minderoo Foundation, explores the nuances of building inclusive cultures, navigating DEI maturity and crafting strategies that resonate with business objectives. 

Listeners will gain real-world examples and practical advice to help HR leaders make impactful, systemic change in their organisations.

SHOWNOTES


💻 Resources

Explore AHRI's Diversity Maturity Model: https://www.ahri.com.au/resources/ahri-diversity-inclusion-maturity-model


Download AHRI's report: The State of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Australian Workplaces: https://www.ahri.com.au/resources/hr-research/the-state-of-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-in-australian-workplaces
What is privilege? (Video) https://youtu.be/hD5f8GuNuGQ
What happens when we stop putting people in boxes? (video) https://youtu.be/Wh-xdZzyjVI



🧠 Learning opportunities

DEI for HR Leaders: Introduction to DEI Practices – short course https://www.ahri.com.au/certification-and-training/short-courses/dei-intro


DEI for HR Leaders: Advanced  DEI practices – short course https://www.ahri.com.au/certification-and-training/short-courses/dei-advanced


⭐ Member-exclusive content

AHRI members can join the⁠ ⁠AHRI LinkedIn Lounge⁠⁠ to connect with your peers and for access to a member-exclusive bonus episode.
Not an AHRI member? Learn about the benefits here. https://www.ahri.com.au/ahri-membership

🤳 Connect with us


Connect with AHRI on ⁠LinkedIn⁠
Connect with Liz on LinkedIn


How to craft DEI strategies that stick with Liz Griffin

In this episode, we explore the evolving role of HR and the expanding remit of people practitioners in today’s complex work environments.

Isa Notermans, Chief People Officer at Fleet Space Technologies and former HR leader at Spotify, Airtasker and Google, shares her insights on how HR can move beyond transactional functions to become trusted strategic advisors.

Listeners will gain practical advice on fostering collaboration across the business, leveraging data and storytelling to influence decision-making, and redefining HR’s role to drive both people and business outcomes.

Further learning and resources

Australian HR Capability Framework: https://bit.ly/4g4RJ8m
Position yourself for an HR leadership position with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/3U1REKj

Learn how to overcome stakeholder resistance with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/3MR1dro

Not yet an AHRI member? Sign up for resources, networks and learning opportunities to help you build careers that have an impact – https://bit.ly/3Vhu50o
Further reading/listening:

Learn more about Isa via this HRM profile article: https://bit.ly/4eMSHpA


Hear more about aligning your business strategy with your DEI initiatives in this podcast episode with Liz Griffin FCPHR: https://bit.ly/3B2qMU1


Hear more about how to take care of your own wellbeing as an HR practitioner with this podcast episode from Dr Adam Fraser: https://bit.ly/3AYK8cJ

Reframing HR's role with Isa Notermans

In this episode, we unpack the shift from viewing psychosocial safety as a compliance exercise to embracing it as a strategic imperative. 

Tanya Heaney-Voogt, a mentally healthy workplaces expert, shares how HR practitioners can influence and enable organisations to create environments where employees feel supported, engaged and safe to speak up.

Listeners will gain practical advice on demystifying complex psychosocial concepts, fostering open dialogue and adopting sustainable work design practices. By focusing on long-term cultural and behavioral change, HR practitioners can better support leaders, balance performance pressures and enhance both people and business outcomes.

Free resources

AHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members, to access a range of free templates from Tanya, including a great 1 on 1 template and a 6-step change plan template.

Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFu

Cited research

University of South Australia research which includes great proof-points for getting buy in psychosocial safety initiatives: https://bit.ly/4ffFzbS
Amy Edmondson's research into psychological safety: https://bit.ly/3DcnIW4
Michelle McQuaid's research into thriving work cultures: https://bit.ly/3Vz3Vq4
Professor Sharon Parker's research into work design: https://bit.ly/41wJVZe
Gallup State of the Global Workplace Report 2024:  https://bit.ly/3ZAuAEa

Further reading


 Comcare code of Practice: https://bit.ly/41BISH8
Tanya's books: Finding Equilibrium, Transforming Norm and Creating Space (coming soon: free download): https://bit.ly/3Df7s6U
Good versus bad stress (HRM article): https://bit.ly/3Bs64x4

HR's guide to building psychosocially safe workplaces with Tanya Heaney-Voogt

In the world of HR, change is often seen as a catalyst for innovation and growth. But HR leaders also need to champion stability without stifling progress. In this episode, we explore themes from Ashley Goodall’s latest book, The Problem with Change, which challenges the assumption that constant disruption is always beneficial for business.

Goodall draws on his extensive experience leading people and learning functions at Deloitte and Cisco, offering practical examples and fresh insights into how perpetual change can erode employee wellbeing and performance. This is a must-listen episode for HR and business leaders alike.

Show notes

Resources and learning

 can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers.  https://bit.ly/41tcOFu

Learn how to manage change more effectively with  from AHRI: https://bit.ly/3Drj9Hw

Further reading

Explore Ashley Goodall's latest book: : https://bit.ly/4gNCMIp

Explore Ashley Goodall's book ', co-authored with Marcus Buckingham: https://bit.ly/4iLbKmr

 (MIT Sloan article) by Ashley Goodall: https://bit.ly/4iKYcre

Rethinking your business's approach to change with Ashley Goodall

This episode delves into the journey from HR leader to non-HR executive, exploring how to blend the strengths of HR expertise with the commercial and operational capabilities needed to lead organisations.

Chris Lamb FCPHR, former Deputy Commissioner of the New South Wales Public Service Commission, reflects on his four-year tenure in the role and shares key lessons from his transition to non-HR C-suite leadership.

Discover practical insights to help you prepare for a non-HR leadership position and unlock your potential for broader organisational impact.

SHOW NOTES

Further learning:

Give your HR leadership a point of difference by becoming a Certified HR practitioner: https://bit.ly/3MZnnre

Help to support HR leaders of the future or learn from a seasoned HR practitioner to prepare for your next step by signing up to AHRI's mentoring program (exclusive to AHRI members): https://bit.ly/3PSP2M7

Learn leadership and management essentials with this short course from AHRI: 
https://bit.ly/3U1REKj

Connect with your peers:

AHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers. Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFu

Follow AHRI on LinkedIn for more useful content: https://bit.ly/40Nu2wG

Moving from HR into executive leadership with Chris Lamb FCPHR

Feelings of self-doubt are not uncommon – especially for leaders stepping into more senior roles or navigating spaces where they don’t fit the conventional mould. But what if impostor syndrome wasn’t a weakness to correct, but a signal of growth? And more importantly, what if it could be reframed as a leadership asset?

In this episode, we’re joined by Kemi Nekvapil – a globally recognised leadership coach, author and keynote speaker who has guided thousands of leaders to find their voice, lead with conviction and build authentic presence. She will also be taking the stage at AHRI’s National Convention and Exhibition this August in Sydney.

If you’re looking to lead with greater confidence and clarity, this conversation offers the tools to get you there.

Thank you to HR Partner for sponsoring this season. If you want to explore a simple HR solution that streamlines your HR admin, you can book a demo today.

SHOW NOTES

Hear more from Kemi Nekvapil at AHRI's National Convention and Exhibition in Sydney from 19-21 August 2025. Register today: https://bit.ly/3HbrcKl

Further learning:

Give your HR leadership a point of difference by becoming a Certified HR practitioner: https://bit.ly/3MZnnre
Help to support HR leaders of the future or learn from a seasoned HR practitioner to prepare for your next step by signing up to AHRI's mentoring program (exclusive to AHRI members): https://bit.ly/3PSP2M7
Learn leadership and management essentials with this short course from AHRI: 
https://bit.ly/3U1REKj
Explore Kemi's books 'POWER' and 'The Gift of Asking': https://bit.ly/3Fk3gUI 
Connect with your peers:

AHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers. Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFu
Follow AHRI on LinkedIn for more useful content: https://bit.ly/40Nu2wG

Reframing impostor syndrome: leading with confidence and values with Kemi Nekvapil

Engaging with the board is a critical skill for HR leaders — but navigating board dynamics isn’t always straightforward.

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr Juliet Bourke, a global authority on human capital, inclusive leadership and governance. With experience advising hundreds of organisations — including Apple, the UN and BHP — and a decade as a Deloitte Partner, Juliet brings rare insight into what boards expect from HR.

Whether you’re board-facing now or preparing for the future, this episode will help you sharpen your strategic edge.

Thank you to HR Partner for sponsoring this season. If you want to explore a simple HR solution that streamlines your HR admin, you can book a demo today: https://bit.ly/4dAYxug

SHOW NOTES:

Learning opportunities:

Give your HR leadership a point of difference by becoming a Certified HR practitioner: https://bit.ly/3MZnnre
Transition from operational responsibilities to visionary leadership with AHRI's Strategic HR Leader short course: https://bit.ly/4kpDqxL 
Learn how to overcome stakeholder resistance with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/3MR1dro
More resources:

Green shoots for change in the boardroom report (Deloitte, 2023): https://bit.ly/3ZOP397
Read DrJuliet's book: Which Two Heads Are Better Than One? : https://bit.ly/4mLIIoW
The value of HR leadership at a board level (HRMOnline by Samantha Martin-Williams): https://bit.ly/4kql5AR
Connect:

Follow Dr Juliet Bourke on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3T8f5R0
 AHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers and access bonus content. Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFu


Navigating boardroom dynamics with Dr Juliet Bourke

In a world of constant disruption, HR leaders are being asked to help people build the mindsets needed to navigate change. In this episode, leadership expert Richard Gerver — a former award-winning principal turned advisor to global organisations like Google and Deloitte — shares how HR can lead with curiosity, create psychological safety and offer stability during times of uncertainty.

This conversation offers a taste of what Richard will expand on at AHRI’s National Convention and Exhibition in Sydney this August.

Thank you to HR Partner for sponsoring this season. If you want to explore a simple HR solution that streamlines your HR admin, you can book a demo today: https://bit.ly/4dAYxug

SHOW NOTES

Learning opportunities:

Get your ticket to AHRI's National Convention and Exhibition to hear more from Richard: https://bit.ly/4dUw42M
Sign up to AHRI's short course to learn how to identify the change lifecycle steps required to effectively manage change using effective change management model and frameworks: https://bit.ly/3Ti5mHY
Explore Richard's books: Change, Learn to Love it, Learn to Lead it; Simple Thinking; Education: a Manifesto for Change; and Creating Tomorrow's Schools Today.
Connect:

Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3FR2YF0
Connect with AHRI on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4kAaLWJ
AHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers and access bonus content. Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFu

Mastering the mindsets to embrace change with Richard Gerver

Most leaders agree that culture drives performance – but too often, it's reduced to a values exercise rather than a measurable, strategic asset. The reality is that negative workplace behaviours are among the strongest predictors of attrition, reputational damage and productivity decline. And in many cases, the warning signs are visible long before the damage becomes public.

In this episode, we’re joined by Charlie Sull – a globally recognised expert in corporate culture and AI. As co-founder of CultureX and a regular contributor to MIT Sloan Management Review, Charlie draws on one of the world’s largest workplace culture datasets to help organisations decode what’s really happening inside their walls – and take action where it matters most.

He shares why culture must be measured and managed with the same rigour as financial or operational performance, and how AI is transforming the way we understand workplace dynamics.

Thank you to HR Partner for sponsoring this season. If you want to explore a simple HR solution that streamlines your HR admin, you can book a demo today: https://bit.ly/4dAYxug

SHOW NOTES

Learning:

Learn how to understand the basics of generative AI for HR with this short course from AHRI: https://bit.ly/40221k4
Explore CultureX's thought leadership and culture champion profiles: blog.culturex.com
Connect:

Connect with Charlie on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4kTMV8H
Connect with AHRI on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4kAaLWJ
AHRI members can join the AHRI LinkedIn lounge, exclusive to AHRI members to discuss some of the themes explored in this episode with their HR peers and access bonus content. Become a member today: https://bit.ly/41tcOFu

How to accurately measure your organisation's culture with Charlie Sull

Conversations to inspire HR, a podcast from the Australian HR Institute.

Mastering the mindsets to embrace change with Richard Gerver

Let's Take This Offline

Related tracks