“We get invited to so many CPO events, but Workgroup HR is really unique.”
12 December 2024
By Claire Dunn
“We get invited to so many CPO events, but Workgroup HR is really unique.” - I’m so glad you thought so Hannah! (Reid, People Director, Apple). 😃
⏬ SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM TO PLAY THE HIGHLIGHTS VIDEO ⏬
GCs and CMOs, step aside! Because last month, we launched Workgroup HR and CPOs/HRDs have joined the Workgroup family. 🎉
Speaking of family, you’d have heard from me sooner, but immediately after our debut I hopped across the pond for thanksgiving! And I have a tonne to be thankful for, including all your glorious testimonies which I’m dying to share as I type this from a wet and cold Barcelona!
“Workgroup HR was one of the best HR events I’ve been to. We get invited to so many things, but this is unique. The topics were not things that you typically see at other conferences, there’s a twist and it’s… dare I say fun!” Hannah Reid People Director Apple
And just because I want to relive the fabulous-ness of our London debut… here’s a little recap that might also make those who couldn’t join properly jealous!
“I arrived with imposter syndrome and left with knowledge, inspiration and a greater confidence.” Kate Shaw HR Director SPORTFIVE
In London, we joked about 'lazy Millennials', handed out citrus fruits, and chatted on sofas under fluffy clouds with neon orange mics about the lemons life has thrown our way as we peeled away those corporate layers.
“Typically, the sessions at events for HR leaders feel like ‘fillers’ with the focus being on suppliers and their ‘sales’ meetings. It was clear to all of us at Workgroup HR, that this was not the case and as a result it was a much more beneficial and enjoyable event… I’ve already signed up for the next one.” Sara Williams HR Director Starbucks
I found out what happens when you gather a bunch of incredibly senior people leaders in one place – and yes, they might not own or wear dungarees (yet) - but they are a playful bunch with a whole lot to share. Big shout out to my colleague Charlotte who was a great sport and joined me in dungarees despite being told by her child that she looks like a minion! But at Workgroup we love standing out and doing things differently…
“Workgroup HR looked and felt so different from the moment I saw the graphics and how it was set up. I love the fact you can customise your day.” Harry Gasiorski Former HR Director Royal Mail
I don’t know about you, but I’ve sat through countless presentation-dense conferences, been handed more pens than I could ever possibly need, and I’ve been caught trying to nap at the end of the day when my brain had switched off! Until Workgroup HR I’d never experienced stunned silence, laughter, gasps and even a tear or two, all in a single panel.
“A sense of connection, conversation and listening defined the conference and really makes it stand out from its competitors.” Rachel Mooney People Strategist RMM People | Ex- Vodafone/Google
As a medic with 8+ years of experience of events, I've been subjected to countless sales pitches, forced vendor meetings, and never-ending exhibitions—not exactly my idea of fun…
“Workgroup HR provided an opportunity to connect with fellow HR leaders and explore the topics we’re all grappling with. We discussed important topics chosen by HRDs — all without the slightest hint of anyone touting for business!” Daniel Hill Interim HR Director British Airways
I’ve always loved taking risks and being brave, but creating HR Trumps for my first event was next level! Watching our 'totally not competitive' contestants battle it out as they compare their showcase stats was a blast—no spoilers, though. Something tells me HR Trumps will be back!
“Thank you for making networking fun!” Bekki Roberts European HR Director Kellanova
Speaking of coming back, every new event needs a cheeky plug and I’m planning 4+ of these events in 2025.
🚇 London – May 1st – a date for your diary!
🐝 Manchester – June
🏴 Edinburgh – September
🚇 London – November
Watch this space and spread the word whilst I go buy myself some new dungarees for the occasion!And finally - before you watch the highlights video and hear my CPOs and HRDs speak for themselves – I want to say a final mahoosive thank-you to ADP, Utopia and Walker Morris for helping me get this off the ground. Plus, all my workgroup facilitators and panellists for their support and to all you lovely people who attended sharing your passions, problems, laughs and lemons with us. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to enjoy some sangria! I hope you liked my round-up, written from Barcelona’s old town during our Christmas celebration trip! Did I mention how much I love my not-so-new new job?Thank you to Hannah, Neil, Harry, Kirstin and Catherine! 😍
👇 NOW PLEASE DO WATCH THE HIGHLIGHTS VIDEO BELOW👇
Let me know if you fancy jumping on a call with me to find out what I’ve got up my sleeve or chat about running your very own workgroup at my next one!