Talent Management

Fidello: Preparing Today's Workforce for Tomorrow
Fidello
Fidello: Preparing Today's Workforce for Tomorrow
Christopher L. Bjorling, President
Jobs descriptions are changing faster than HR systems can update them. As artificial intelligence and evolving business models reshape how work gets done, organizations can no longer rely on static job roles to meet their future needs. Leaders are under growing pressure to understand whether their workforce has the skills, knowledge and capabilities needed not only for today’s priorities, but also for tomorrow’s opportunities.

Fidello helps organizations bridge the gap between current workforce capabilities and future business demands through a competency-based approach to performance management.

For more than three decades, the human performance consulting firm has guided organizations in shifting their focus from job titles to the competencies that drive performance. Its modular framework treats skills, knowledge, proficiencies and capabilities as building blocks that can be developed and recombined as roles change, helping organizations build adaptable workforces.

“We believe performance management is not really an HR process, but a business process that happens to be facilitated by HR,” says Christopher L. Bjorling, president.

Viewing performance management through a business lens requires organizations to look beyond outcomes alone and understand the capabilities that produce them. Where traditional systems focus on whether objectives were achieved, Fidello helps organizations understand how those outcomes were achieved. Measuring competencies enables leaders to gain deeper insight into present and required capabilities that build workforce’s future-readiness.
Career Candor: Human-First Outplacement Built for Both Sides of Transition
Career Candor
Career Candor: Human-First Outplacement Built for Both Sides of Transition
Brittany Wilson, Founder and CEO
When Brittany Wilson built Career Candor into a full-time outplacement and career development firm, she drew on experience from the other side of the process. Before leading the women-owned company, Wilson worked in corporate HR and career development, including on a global career services team that supported more than 100,000 employees. When that department closed and her own role was eliminated, she entered the same transition she had spent years helping others navigate.

Her employer provided outplacement support, and Wilson was eager to work with a career coach. Instead, the experience felt rushed and impersonal. Her advisor seemed unfamiliar with the job market and ready to move on to the next call. Wilson told a coworker, ‘I can do this a whole lot better.’ The reply, ‘You should,’ launched Career Candor, now recognized by Manage HR as a Top Outplacement Firm 2026.

Wilson had long observed how traditional outplacement models were built around volume rather than the person experiencing the transition. Job seekers moved through standardized checklists while HR leaders managed difficult conversations with limited guidance. Career Candor was built to support both sides.

Today, it works with job seekers affected by layoffs or reorganizations and the HR professionals and leaders who must plan and communicate those decisions. Its work often begins before layoffs are announced, helping organizations understand who will be impacted, where employees are based, their tenure, functional areas, career levels and industry backgrounds. Career Candor prepares communication plans, provides scripts for HR teams and leaders and helps introduce outplacement services with clarity and a holistic approach. When needed, it also provides on-site support, meeting employees while still employed and helping organizations gather direct feedback from those affected.
CMP: High-Touch, High-Impact Career Transitions and Leadership Development
CMP
CMP: High-Touch, High-Impact Career Transitions and Leadership Development
Maryanne Piña, CEO
Workforce management today requires organizations to continually realign talent to meet evolving business needs. Sometimes that realignment includes reductions in force, a reality that demands clarity, care, and disciplined execution. Technology can streamline the process, but successful transitions still depend on trust, consistency, and human connection.

That is the balance CMP is built to deliver through high touch support that helps people move forward while protecting the employer brand. “Our goal is to advance individual careers while strengthening the brands we serve,” says CEO Maryanne Piña. “To us, that is outplacement done right.”

A minority and women owned firm, CMP supports organizations across the United States, Latin America, Europe, and Asia often operating as an extension of HR teams during complex moments like reorganizations and M&A integrations.

CMP’s career transition experience is designed to deliver faster, more confident landings and a steadier employee experience during change. With certified coaches and a capped caseload of no more than 25 participants, individuals receive consistent, culturally competent support that strengthens clarity, momentum, and accountability, resulting in stronger positioning, better interviews, and smoother onboarding into the next role.

CMP’s Career Victory Portal extends impact at scale by giving participants always on access to AI enabled coaching, resume and LinkedIn optimization, interview practice, job search tools, scheduling, and networking support in more than 40 languages. For HR leaders, the platform provides real time visibility into engagement and progress, plus quarterly reporting that translates activity into outcomes, including landing rates and key milestones that demonstrate program effectiveness.


Well being is treated as a performance factor, not an add on. Coaches are trained to recognize distress early and respond with care, helping participants stay resilient, focused, and forward moving. The result is reduced disruption, lower anxiety driven escalation, and a more stable transition experience that protects both people and employer brand.

CMP’s impact shows up most clearly in high complexity change environments. In one engagement, a Fortune 500 organization navigating an acquisition needed to support HR teams across Europe and Asia through a workforce change. CMP enabled a structured approach that included manager readiness, employee communications support, and delivery of career transition services, helping the organization move quickly while sustaining a consistent candidate experience.

Elevating Organizational Success through Modern Human Performance Management

Organizations across industries are operating in an increasingly complex business environment shaped by digital transformation, evolving workforce expectations, competitive talent markets, and rapid technological change. While technology remains a critical driver of business growth, organizations are increasingly recognizing that long-term success ultimately depends on the performance, adaptability, and engagement of their people. Human performance management has emerged as a strategic business function that extends far beyond traditional employee evaluations and annual reviews.

Modern human performance management focuses on creating environments where employees can consistently perform at their highest potential while aligning individual contributions with organizational goals. The shift toward knowledge-based work, hybrid workplaces, and innovation-driven business models has significantly transformed performance management expectations. Today's organizations increasingly seek continuous performance management systems capable of supporting agility, collaboration, learning, and long-term workforce growth.

Professionals increasingly value career development opportunities, meaningful feedback, workplace flexibility, recognition, and purpose-driven work environments. Businesses that effectively manage and enhance human performance are often better positioned to attract top talent, improve retention rates, strengthen productivity, and maintain competitive advantages. AI, workforce analytics, cloud-based performance platforms, predictive insights, and digital collaboration tools are helping organizations better understand employee performance patterns, identify skill gaps, and create more personalized development strategies.

Technology and Data Analytics Transforming Performance Management

The evolution of digital workplace technologies has fundamentally changed how organizations measure, support, and improve employee performance. Traditional performance reviews often provided limited snapshots of employee contributions and frequently failed to capture the dynamic nature of modern work environments. Today’s human performance management systems emphasize continuous evaluation, real-time feedback, and actionable performance insights.

AI has become an important component of modern performance management platforms. AI-powered systems can analyze productivity trends, employee engagement indicators, collaboration patterns, and development progress to provide managers with more comprehensive workforce insights. The technologies help organizations make informed decisions regarding talent development, succession planning, and workforce optimization.

Workforce analytics continues to gain significance as organizations seek measurable approaches to performance improvement. Advanced analytics platforms allow leaders to identify productivity drivers, assess team effectiveness, monitor workforce trends, and evaluate the impact of training initiatives. Data-driven decision-making helps businesses allocate resources more effectively while supporting long-term workforce planning. Employees and managers can access performance goals, feedback systems, development plans, and learning resources through centralized digital environments.

Organizations increasingly encourage ongoing conversations regarding performance expectations, achievements, challenges, and career development opportunities. Goal tracking, evaluation scheduling, progress reporting, and development planning can now be managed through integrated digital systems that reduce administrative workload while improving consistency across the organization. Modern human performance management systems increasingly connect with employee training platforms, certification programs, and skills development resources.

Workforce Expectations Driving a New Performance Culture

The modern workforce is influencing significant changes in how organizations approach employee performance and development. Employees increasingly seek work environments that support continuous learning, recognition, flexibility, and meaningful professional growth rather than relying solely on compensation as a measure of job satisfaction.

Career development has become a major factor in workforce engagement. Employees often expect organizations to invest in their skills, leadership potential, and long-term professional advancement.

“Modern human performance management systems increasingly connect with employee training platforms, certification programs, and skills development resources.”

Human performance management systems increasingly incorporate personalized development plans, mentorship programs, and competency-building initiatives designed to support employee growth. Organizations that foster strong communication, recognition, and collaboration often experience higher productivity, stronger retention rates, and improved workplace morale. Performance management strategies increasingly emphasize engagement as a key driver of organizational success.

Leadership development has become a critical component of modern performance management frameworks. Effective leaders play a major role in supporting employee motivation, coaching, and team performance. Organizations increasingly invest in leadership training programs that strengthen communication, emotional intelligence, decision-making, and people management capabilities. Traditional measures based on physical presence are becoming less relevant as organizations focus more on outcomes, accountability, collaboration, and productivity.

Modern performance systems emphasize goal achievement and contribution quality rather than workplace attendance alone. Organizations increasingly seek fair, transparent, and unbiased evaluation processes that support equal development opportunities and recognize diverse contributions across the workforce. Employee well-being has become another important factor affecting performance outcomes. Mental health, work-life balance, stress management, and workplace support systems directly influence productivity and engagement.

Emerging Challenges Shaping the Future of Human Performance Management

Remote and hybrid teams often require new approaches to communication, collaboration, and performance visibility. Measuring performance fairly and accurately remains another ongoing challenge. Organizations must balance quantitative performance metrics with qualitative assessments that recognize creativity, leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving capabilities. Overreliance on narrow productivity indicators can create incomplete evaluations and unintended workforce consequences.

High workloads, constant connectivity, and rapid organizational change can negatively influence employee well-being and long-term productivity. Businesses increasingly prioritize sustainable performance models that support both organizational goals and employee health. Data privacy and ethical workforce analytics are becoming increasingly important considerations. Organizations collecting performance-related data must ensure transparency, responsible use, and compliance with privacy regulations while maintaining employee trust.

Even advanced technology platforms require skilled leaders capable of providing constructive feedback, coaching employees, resolving challenges, and fostering professional growth. Organizations continue investing in manager development programs to strengthen performance leadership capabilities. As technology and business requirements evolve rapidly, organizations must continuously identify emerging skill needs and provide effective learning opportunities to maintain workforce competitiveness.

Outplacement Firms Transforming Modern Workforce Transition Strategies

Outplacement firms are becoming increasingly important within the global workforce management and human resources landscape as organizations prioritize employee transition support, workforce restructuring, and long-term talent sustainability. Employers increasingly recognize that workforce reductions and organizational transitions require strategic support systems that protect employer reputation, maintain workforce morale, and help displaced employees secure new career opportunities efficiently.

Digital Platforms and Automation Reshaping Outplacement Services

Virtual coaching platforms, cloud-based career management systems, and digital learning environments are helping outplacement firms improve scalability, accessibility, and operational efficiency. AI-powered career matching systems can analyze employee skills, professional experience, market trends, and hiring patterns to identify suitable career opportunities more accurately and efficiently. These intelligent systems help displaced employees navigate changing labor markets while enabling career coaches to provide more personalized and strategic guidance. Predictive analytics tools are also transforming workforce transition planning.

Advanced analytics platforms can identify emerging skill demands, labor shortages, high-growth industries, and regional hiring trends, allowing outplacement firms to align employee career development strategies with future market opportunities. This data-driven approach improves placement success rates while helping organizations manage workforce restructuring more effectively. Remote work expansion is creating additional opportunities for virtual outplacement services.

Hybrid and remote employment models have increased demand for digital career transition support, online networking events, virtual job fairs, and remote professional development programs. Outplacement firms are increasingly offering video coaching sessions, AI-powered interview simulations, and cloud-based collaboration tools that support geographically dispersed employees and global workforce transitions.

Customization is becoming a major competitive differentiator within the marketplace. Modern outplacement providers increasingly tailor transition programs according to employee experience levels, career objectives, industry backgrounds, and leadership responsibilities. Personalized coaching strategies, executive transition services, digital learning pathways, and targeted career development plans improve employee engagement while increasing successful job placement outcomes.

Workforce Trends and Career Mobility Market Opportunities

Rapidly changing workforce dynamics are creating substantial growth opportunities for outplacement firms worldwide. Technological disruption, automation, artificial intelligence, and evolving business models are forcing organizations to adapt workforce strategies and redefine talent requirements continuously. As companies restructure operations, implement digital transformation initiatives, and optimize labor costs, demand for professional workforce transition services continues to expand across multiple industries.

Outplacement firms increasingly provide career development support, digital skills training, leadership coaching, certification programs, and professional development resources that help displaced employees transition into emerging industries and high-demand roles. Upskilling and reskilling initiatives are particularly important as automation transforms traditional job functions across sectors such as manufacturing, retail, finance, healthcare, and technology. Employees affected by workforce restructuring increasingly require new technical and digital competencies to remain competitive in modern labor markets. Outplacement firms that offer integrated learning platforms and industry-specific training programs are gaining a stronger market position.

Organizations increasingly expect workforce transition providers to deliver inclusive career support services that address the needs of diverse employee populations, including women, older professionals, veterans, neurodivergent individuals, and underrepresented groups. Firms that provide culturally responsive coaching programs, accessible digital platforms, and inclusive career guidance are becoming more attractive to enterprise clients seeking socially responsible workforce management strategies. Employee mental health and emotional well-being are becoming essential components of modern outplacement programs. Workforce reductions and organizational restructuring often create significant stress, uncertainty, and emotional challenges for affected employees.

Globalization and international workforce mobility are further expanding market opportunities. Multinational organizations require scalable outplacement solutions that support employees across different countries while complying with regional labor laws, cultural expectations, and employment regulations. Providers offering multilingual coaching, localized labor market expertise, and globally integrated workforce transition services are experiencing increased demand from international enterprises. Smart workforce management systems can monitor employee productivity trends, training participation, workplace engagement, and operational performance in real time.

Sustainability and Innovation Driving Industry Evolution

Organizations undergoing workforce restructuring must comply with evolving legal requirements related to severance programs, employee notifications, workforce reductions, and fair employment practices. Outplacement firms play an increasingly important role in helping employers navigate complex compliance obligations while minimizing legal and reputational risks. Data privacy and cybersecurity are becoming critical priorities as outplacement providers increasingly rely on digital platforms and cloud-based systems to manage employee information.

Workforce transition programs often involve sensitive personal data, employment records, financial details, career assessments, and professional histories. Firms must therefore invest heavily in encrypted communication systems, secure digital infrastructures, cybersecurity frameworks, and data protection policies to comply with global privacy regulations.

AI-driven recruitment platforms and workforce analytics tools must operate transparently and avoid algorithmic bias that could negatively impact employment opportunities for specific demographic groups. Outplacement firms are increasingly adopting ethical AI governance frameworks, inclusive hiring technologies, and transparent workforce analytics systems to strengthen trust and maintain regulatory compliance.

Sustainability is emerging as another important strategic focus within workforce transition services. Digital outplacement platforms reduce paper consumption, business travel, and physical office use while improving accessibility for remote employees. Virtual coaching programs, online learning systems, and cloud-based workforce management tools support broader environmental sustainability objectives while enhancing operational efficiency.

Thriving in a Competitive Market: Innovative Approaches to Talent Acquisition and Outplacement

In this competitive landscape, businesses must adapt their strategies to attract, retain, and develop top talent while facilitating smooth transitions for employees during periods of change. Effective talent management and employee transitions are now critical elements of contemporary business strategies, helping organizations enhance workplace engagement, foster a positive organizational culture, and maintain operational efficiency. As companies prioritize these aspects, the demand for specialized outplacement services and tailored support systems is rising, highlighting the need for a proactive approach in workforce planning and development.

Current Trends Impacting the Talent and Outplacement Service Sector

The demand for talent and outplacement services has surged as companies navigate increasingly volatile economic conditions, workforce globalization, and changing employee expectations. In response to these factors, businesses are seeking comprehensive solutions for talent acquisition, management, and transition. Key trends are shaping the industry landscape, forcing organizations to pivot their strategies in order to maintain a competitive edge. Economic shifts and uncertainties have intensified the need for agile talent management strategies. Companies are recognizing the importance of sustaining a strong talent pipeline while also providing necessary support to employees during transitions.

The rise of the gig economy has further complicated traditional employment models, compelling organizations to explore flexible staffing solutions. As a result, effective talent management has become crucial in attracting and retaining top talent in a competitive job market. In this context, outplacement services have emerged as a vital element of workforce planning. By providing career coaching, resume writing assistance, and job placement services, organizations can help employees navigate career transitions while enhancing their reputation.

Supporting outgoing employees fosters positive relationships and can ultimately lead to loyalty from remaining staff, reinforcing the organization's employer brand. Moreover, a growing emphasis on corporate responsibility and employee well-being is reshaping market dynamics. Companies prioritizing talent and career development are more likely to attract and retain skilled employees. Investing in talent and outplacement services is increasingly viewed as a prudent investment aligned with overall business success. This strategic alignment enhances workforce stability and aligns organizational capabilities with business objectives.

Technological Advancements Shaping the Industry

Technological innovations are at the forefront of evolving talent and outplacement services. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and digital platforms is transforming service delivery and enhancing efficiency. A notable advancement is the deployment of AI-powered tools that streamline the career coaching process and improve job matching. These tools analyze individual skills, experiences, and preferences, enabling more efficient connections between candidates and suitable job opportunities. This not only accelerates the job search but also enhances success rates for job placements, benefiting both employees and employers.

Virtual coaching platforms have also gained traction, allowing career consultants to connect with a broader audience, unrestricted by geographical limitations. This accessibility has made outplacement services more affordable and attainable for organizations of all sizes. By leveraging digital tools, businesses can offer supportive resources to employees during transitions, regardless of location. Data analytics capabilities have further revolutionized talent management strategies.

Organizations can gather insights from employee performance metrics, turnover rates, and engagement levels to inform their talent development initiatives. By identifying patterns and trends, businesses can proactively address workforce challenges and tailor outplacement services to meet the specific needs of their employees. Utilizing data-driven approaches enhances decision-making and helps organizations maximize the effectiveness of their talent strategies.

Challenges and Opportunities for Stakeholders

While the talent and outplacement service industry presents a multitude of opportunities, it is not without its challenges. One of the primary obstacles faced by service providers is the need to adapt to evolving workforce dynamics continuously. As new generations enter the job market, their preferences and expectations are reshaping the industry landscape. Stakeholders must remain agile and responsive to these shifts to stay relevant and effective in their service delivery.

The competitive landscape is another challenge. With many organizations opting to offer in-house outplacement services, providers face increasing price pressures and a heightened need for differentiation. Service providers must develop unique value propositions that emphasize the quality and effectiveness of their services, rather than simply competing on price. However, these challenges also create opportunities for growth and innovation. As remote work becomes more prevalent, outplacement service providers can expand their reach and develop tailored solutions suitable for virtual work environments. By embracing hybrid coaching models and leveraging digital tools, stakeholders can deliver flexible service offerings that align with modern workforce needs.

The emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in hiring practices presents additional opportunities for talent and outplacement service providers. By incorporating DEI principles into their services, organizations can better support underrepresented groups during transitions, making their workforce more inclusive and diverse. Embracing diversity not only benefits the individuals involved but also enriches the organization's culture and enhances overall performance.

The talent and outplacement service industry is at a crucial juncture, marked by growth and innovation. As organizations navigate the complexities of workforce transitions, the demand for effective talent management solutions continues to rise. By adapting to current trends, embracing technological advancements, and addressing the challenges of a rapidly changing environment, stakeholders can position themselves for success and effectively support employees through periods of change. The future of talent and outplacement services promises to be dynamic, driven by the commitment of organizations to foster supportive work environments and invest in the development of their workforce.

From Perk to Performance: Rethinking Executive Coaching as a Lever for Value Creation
Azamara Cruises
From Perk to Performance: Rethinking Executive Coaching as a Lever for Value Creation
Robin Hendricks, Head of Talent

Robin Hendricks, M.Ed., CEC, is a strategic talent and organizational performance leader at Azamara Cruises, where she develops high-impact people functions, performance systems, and agile learning ecosystems. She integrates executive coaching with data-driven talent design to strengthen workforce capability and drive business outcomes.

Coaching Is Still Seen as a Perk

In organizations of all sizes, executive coaching is still treated as an investment reserved for top leaders or as a generous last-ditch performance management effort. While coaching recipients are largely grateful for the support and intervention, this siloed approach does little for the organizational ecosystem in which the coached leader is expected to return, thrive, and make an impact.

In today’s competitive market, regardless of business, industry, or sector, leadership stability and performance aren’t “nice-to-have.” They’re drivers of value creation. Treating coaching as a perk does a disservice to leaders and the organization. When coaching is embedded into the infrastructure of performance and operations, its value increases exponentially.

Why Coaching Matters in High-Stakes Contexts

When companies undergo acquisitions, restructures, or leadership transitions, the cost of missteps is enormous.

• Failed executive hires can cost millions in direct and indirect losses.

• Misaligned leadership slows decision-making and derails transformation.

• Cultural drag erodes engagement and trust, making operational execution harder.

“Coaching is not a luxury. It’s a strategic lever that protects investments, accelerates integration, and preserves value”

When embedded into these inflection points, coaching shifts from individual support to organizational risk management. It accelerates alignment, strengthens decision-making, and reduces costly leadership churn.

Coaching as a Structured Lever.

So how do we begin reframing coaching from a perk to a lever for value creation? It requires shifting from ad hoc engagements to structured integration into organizational systems..

1. Make Coaching Standard in Executive Transitions

Don’t wait for problems. Every executive onboarding or post-acquisition leadership change should include a coaching plan tied to 90-day goals. This ensures leaders are not just “getting up to speed,” they are supported to deliver impact in a critical window. This is an ideal time to provide leaders with coaching advocacy.

2. Tie Coaching to Business Outcomes

Coaching goals should reflect organizational priorities: faster decision-making, cultural integration, and leadership retention. Measuring coaching against these outcomes ensures return on investment (ROI) is visible and meaningful. Make sure your coaching partners understand your organization’s broader coaching objectives.

3. Create Scalable Coaching Frameworks

Not every leader needs the same intensity or type of coaching. Be sure your coaching partners offer scalable programs: quick sprints for role clarity, targeted sessions for development needs, and extended engagements for transformation leadership. This makes coaching accessible without ballooning costs.

Protecting Value Through Coaching

Private equity offers a clear case study that explains why the shift from perk to value lever matters. Portfolio companies often face leadership churn and cultural disruption. Here, coaching is used to stabilize executives, align leadership with new performance expectations, and prevent costly rework.

In this context, coaching is not a luxury. It’s a strategic lever that protects investments, accelerates integration, and preserves value. Whether public or private, the same principles apply to organizations that are forming, scaling, optimizing, or transforming.

Looking Ahead

The organizations that win in complex environments will not be those that treat coaching as a nice-to-have. They will be those that embed it into the fabric of leadership transitions, cultural integration, and performance systems.

It’s time to stop seeing coaching as a perk for the few and start leveraging it as a scalable, structured driver of organizational success.

3 Signs Your Organization Still Treats Coaching as a Perk

1. It starts late. Coaching is offered only after problems surface, rather than during onboarding or leadership transitions.

2. It’s detached from outcomes. Coaching goals focus solely on personal growth and soft skills, without tying back to business performance, decision-making, or retention.

3. It’s inconsistent and ad hoc. Coaching engagements vary widely by leader, with no standardized framework or scalable approach across the organization.

Career Observations
Sysco
Career Observations
Andrea G. Procaccino, Vice President of Global Talent Management

As a child, I remember the joy of climbing and swinging from one bar to another on a jungle gym in the park while my parents laughed and looked on. I didn’t approach the jungle gym with a plan per se. When the opportunity presented itself to me, I decided where to go or climb to get to the top in the most exciting, efficient way. My career has been no different. I always say that your career is a jungle gym, not a ladder. You sometimes go up or over laterally or even down a rung to go even higher to your ultimate goal. Isn’t it more exciting that way? I know it has been for me, and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it!

In college, I knew that I wanted to major in one of the life sciences (biochemistry) as I found the complexity and ambiguity of science so intriguing. I knew I didn’t want to spend years and years in medical school, and as an animal lover, I knew I couldn’t work in a lab doing animal experiments. Let’s face it, I was a business suit and killer pair of heels kind of girl! So, I joined Johnson & Johnson’s Ortho Pharmaceutical Corporation two weeks after college as a Clinical Research Associate and climbed the ladder in clinical research and site management. I thought in my naivety that you had one way to go: up the ladder. I didn’t even consider that you could change your career trajectory dramatically, which I would do years later. Then, I was given an opportunity at JNJ to get trained and certified in learning and development and start and grow an L&D department in their Pharma sector. This was something totally different for me, but I always enjoyed being in front of a classroom or large audience, helping them connect the dots, helping them learn through storytelling and making it enjoyable for them. And let’s face it; no one else wanted to do that, so everyone was happy to let me be the one to travel all over and do the necessary training. This was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. So, I took it and grew the department to include an e-learning team, performance support, and a global presence in all regions. We won awards on the national and international stage for our work. After almost 24 years, I knew I needed to branch out and learn another industry besides pharmaceuticals. Again, I was allowed to learn a different side of business, sales and marketing, in a global consumer goods company.

Like that jungle gym, I went from a senior director at JNJ to a Regional Director role at Avon Products. This was really outside of my comfort zone!

Not only was it something completely different, but it was also a 2.5-hour commute from my home to Manhattan!

But growth comes from discomfort, and I knew I had to challenge myself to grow and learn, and I knew my skills were transferrable to another industry. After two years of transforming how they did sales training, they asked me to head up L&D in the Global Talent Management department globally for the entire corporation, and I was promoted to Executive Director, moving upwards on that career jungle gym. Again, I was learning new things and pushing myself. Every experience was another puzzle piece towards my ultimate goal of becoming a Chief Learning Officer one day. After two years, that dream became a reality when I accepted the position of CLO and Vice President of Talent Development & Diversity at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital in NYC. This job was my biggest role to date. I was responsible for Training & Development, Technology Learning Solutions, Organizational Development, Recognition and Events, and by the time I left the role almost ten years later, also Diversity & Inclusion and Talent Strategy, another rung up on that jungle gym. I was stretched and challenged and grew in many ways. My skills and capabilities grew enormously.

"Don’t be afraid to climb higher on that jungle gym or even miss a run or fall off. Just jump back on and remember that only you can decide your next step. But by all means, take that step! I did, and I’ve never looked back!"

Being in healthcare and being a corporate officer of the organization during the global pandemic was also a very fulfilling experience for me and something I will always be proud of. My team worked tirelessly to support our frontline colleagues in fighting against COVID. Never did I think my leadership skills would be put to that kind of test. Four months ago, I swung up another rung and took on the exciting role of Vice President of Global Talent Management for Sysco Corporation, a leader in global food distribution. I went from pharmaceuticals to consumer goods, healthcare to food distribution. My capabilities, skills and talents were industry agnostic, and the transition to different industries has been very seamless. I learned never to be afraid of learning a new industry and all that goes into its success. To succeed, especially as an HR leader, you must also be a lifetime learner and always be intellectually curious.

As I look in the rearview mirror of my career, I realize that every role I took was a stepping stone to get me to where I am today. My biggest learnings were these: 1) when an opportunity presents itself to you, take a leap of faith and try it and learn from it; 2) believe in yourself; 3) there is learning and growth through mistakes and failure – it’s how you handle them and what you do with the learning that will set you apart from others; 4) find a mentor or sponsor and if you can’t find one, be your own advocate; and lastly and most importantly, 5) be true to your personal values. I was widowed at 32 and had a 2-year-old son. He was and always will be my number one priority. I held fast to that and stuck to my convictions about always being there for him as his only parent, and I was still able to grow my career.

Set your boundaries, communicate them, and don’t be afraid to stick to them. I always ensured I was at school events, ran him to hockey practice, etc.

Was it hard managing work and life and trying to find balance? Of course, it was. But I knew what my priority was, my north star, and I let that guide me. As I look back, I’m proud of that, and I know it had a positive impact on my son.

Don’t be afraid to climb higher on that jungle gym or even miss a run or fall off.

Just jump back on and remember that only you can decide your next step. But by all means, take that step! I did, and I’ve never looked back!

 

Balancing Tech and Touch: A Strategic Approach to Global Talent
Driscoll’s
Balancing Tech and Touch: A Strategic Approach to Global Talent
Santiago Bedolla, Director, Global Talent Acquisition

Santiago Bedolla is the Director of Global Talent Acquisition at Driscoll’s, the world’s largest fresh berry company. He leads global recruiting efforts to attract top talent and build a diverse workforce across regions. He began his career in Human Resources at Hewlett-Packard, specializing in Talent Acquisition and Development, and later expanded his expertise at MIRA Companies, a private equity firm. Bedolla joined Driscoll’s in a regional talent role in Mexico, and through his leadership and international experience, including an expatriate assignment in California, he transitioned into an expanded role. He was officially located at Driscoll’s headquarters in Watsonville, California, and continues to lead the company’s global talent acquisition strategy. Bedolla holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from ITESM in Guadalajara, Mexico, and an MBA from ITESO in Guadalajara.

Through this article, Bedolla explores the multifaceted approach to leading global talent, balancing technology with human connection, ensuring personalized support and compliance, adapting to change, and fostering continuous growth for individuals and the organization.

Directing Global Talent: Strategic Hiring and Internal Growth

As Director, Global Talent Acquisition, I lead our worldwide talent acquisition efforts, overseeing recruitment across more than 12 countries. My teams are responsible for bringing in over 8,000 hires annually, spanning full-time, internship, and seasonal roles. A key aspect of my role is understanding distinct local labor trends and staying closely attuned to our evolving business needs; this knowledge is vital for building targeted recruiting strategies that attract the right talent to drive our growth and achieve our mission and vision.

“Technology manages the operational mechanics, empowering us to focus on building strong connections and making insightful hiring decisions.”

I previously led our global mobility program, which has recently transitioned to a different functional area within HR. This program facilitates domestic and international talent movement. We view this function as a vital component of Talent Development, actively creating opportunities for employee growth, knowledge sharing, and skill-building across the business. It’s a significant way to invest in our people while supporting the organization’s broader strategic goals.

Technology in TA: Enhancing Efficiency for Deeper Connections

Technology, including AI, machine learning, and talent platforms, fundamentally supports our business growth, and our global talent acquisition strategies. We employ these tools to automate repetitive and time-consuming tasks. This automation frees our team to concentrate on the high-value, human-centric aspects of recruitment: truly understanding candidates, assessing their potential and fit, exploring their motivations and career goals, and guiding them towards meaningful opportunities within our organization. Essentially, technology manages the operational mechanics, empowering us to focus on building strong connections and making insightful hiring decisions that align individual aspirations with organizational needs.

Ensuring Smooth Moves: Tailored End-to-End Support

Our strategy for ensuring a positive relocation experience hinges on personalization within a structured framework. While our mobility policies provide essential guidelines, we tailor the support to the unique circumstances of each relocating employee and their family. From initial planning before departure to the assignment’s conclusion – be it repatriation or localization – we provide seamless end-to-end assistance. This is delivered through a combination of our expert internal mobility team and carefully selected external partners. Regular check-ins and performance reviews are also integral, as they monitor progress and confirm that employees feel well-supported throughout their international journey.

Navigating Market Changes: Flexible Talent, Rigorous Compliance

Adapting to evolving global labor markets requires significant flexibility in our talent acquisition strategies. 1 We strategically incorporate contingent and project-based talent into our workforce mix, recognizing their value in enhancing our agility to meet dynamic business demands. Concurrently, close collaboration with our Legal and Industrial Relations teams is crucial to ensure responsible hiring practices and strict compliance across all operating countries. Providing our leaders with flexible talent solutions empowers us to respond rapidly to market shifts and sustain business momentum in today’s fast-paced global landscape.

Building an OD Career: Learn Continuously, Seek Discomfort

My primary advice for young professionals aspiring to successful careers in Human Capital is cultivating relentless curiosity. Actively seek learning opportunities from everyone around you, embracing formal mentorships and informal daily interactions. Invest the time to deeply understand the business context and how your Human Capital contributions create value. Crucially, be willing to embrace calculated risks and volunteer for initiatives that stretch your capabilities beyond your comfort zone – this is frequently the catalyst for significant professional growth. These steps will accelerate your development and make you a versatile professional prepared for future challenges.

Talent Management Info

Q1
What Do Top Talent Management Solutions Do?
Top Talent Management Solutions help organizations attract, develop, retain and align talent with business priorities. They may support hiring, workforce planning, leadership development, performance management, coaching, career mobility or employee engagement. For HR leaders, the value lies in how well these solutions connect people strategy with measurable workforce outcomes. The category is broad, so enterprises should assess whether a solution focuses on one talent need or supports multiple stages of the employee lifecycle.
Q2
Why Do Talent Management Solutions Matter Now?
Top Talent Management Solutions matter because organizations are dealing with tighter talent markets, hybrid work, leadership gaps and rising expectations from employees. HR teams need better visibility into skills, performance, succession needs and retention risks. Talent management companies are no longer judged only by process support; they are evaluated by how well they help employers make better workforce decisions, improve manager effectiveness and build stronger employee experiences.
Q3
How Should Enterprises Evaluate Talent Management Providers?
Enterprises should evaluate talent management providers by looking at fit, depth, usability, data quality and implementation support. A strong provider should understand HR priorities, integrate with existing systems and make adoption practical for managers and employees. Top Talent Management Solutions should also offer clear reporting so HR leaders can track progress across hiring quality, engagement, development and retention. The right choice depends on business scale, workforce complexity and the maturity of the HR function.
Q4
What Business Value Do These Solutions Create?
Talent management vendors create value by helping organizations reduce hiring friction, strengthen leadership pipelines, improve retention and make development more targeted. When used well, Top Talent Management Solutions give HR teams a clearer view of workforce capability and future talent risks. They also support better conversations between managers and employees by making goals, performance expectations and growth paths easier to manage throughout the lifecycle.
Q5
What Role Does Technology Play in Talent Management?
Technology is becoming central to talent management because HR teams need faster insights and more personalized workforce support. AI, analytics and automation can help identify skill gaps, recommend learning paths, support succession planning and improve candidate or employee matching. Yet technology alone is not enough. Talent management solutions need sound HR judgment, clean data, change support and user-friendly design. The strongest platforms balance intelligence with practical use for HR teams and business leaders.
Q6
What Should Decision-Makers Prioritize When Comparing Options?
Decision-makers should prioritize business fit, employee experience, scalability and proof of workforce impact. Top Talent Management Solutions should help HR leaders move beyond isolated programs and build a connected view of talent across hiring, development, performance and retention. Enterprises should also compare talent management providers on service model, reporting clarity, integration readiness and the ability to support managers in daily people decisions.
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