The pandemic has provided a really tough testing ground for organisations’ values and culture. Many thanks to Natalie Keeling, HR Services Manager of Yeo Valley for sharing their story so far with The Bath HR Network this week.
Naturally it’s been incredibly demanding and fast-paced – translating changes in legislation into policy overnight, and working out how to respond operationally when demand actually increased.
But this was a really positive story about how having already established strong and positive values is giving a great payback when needed. Being part of #feedthenation contributed to a strong sense of purpose, together with visible leadership and regular communications. ‘A genuine desire to meaningfully engage with people’ had already been established.
The teamwork between HR and the Exec has been strong too, and I asked Natalie what impact all this has had on HR’s reputation. She wasn’t sure, and I’m sure she’s been too busy and also too modest to think about it.
Our mission at enable-hr is to develop the credibility, influence and confidence of HR people at all levels, and Natalie’s achievements are typical of those that help to build real stature. Great work that made me feel proud to be in the HR profession.
