The evolving role of human resources in the modern workplace should not be understated. Technology can help to propel this change.

Dimitri Boylan, founder and chief executive of Avature, joins The HR Leader to share invaluable insights into the future of HR strategy and the pivotal role technology plays in shaping it.

The discussion touches on the increasing integration of HR into strategic planning, a trend that has gained momentum, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Boylan points out that the pandemic served as a catalyst, propelling HR professionals to the forefront of executive decision making, largely due to the human-centric crises it triggered. This shift underscores the growing recognition of HR’s strategic value beyond its traditional administrative functions.

The conversation then delves into the implications of remote work policies, which remain a topic of ongoing debate among companies. Boylan argues that the uncertainty surrounding work policies continues to keep HR in crucial conversations at the C-suite level, highlighting the need for HR to adapt to its newfound strategic role.

HR has a critical relationship with technology, especially as the workforce undergoes digital transformation. Boylan emphasises the importance of a robust partnership between HR and IT departments to navigate these challenges effectively. Similarly, artificial intelligence (AI) is of key concern as the workforce approaches this tech with cautious optimism. While acknowledging the potential of AI to transform various HR functions, such as recruiting and talent management, he also highlights the ethical considerations and potential biases that come with AI deployment.

The passage of legislation allowing for a right to disconnect for Australian workers provides business owners across the country an opportunity to challenge the paradigms they hold around flexible working and design a workplace that works for their employees and fosters productivity, argues one director.

In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, from HR Leader’s sister brand, Lawyers Weekly, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes in house nous director Natasha Hannah to discuss what is meant by the term “right to disconnect”, whether and how organisations are responding to the passage of its legislation, the concerns that employers have, and hurdles to be overcome in the new environment.

Hannah also details the contractual and policy changes that small-business owners will have to undertake, the various conversations that should be had both with one’s staff members and a company’s clients, how to navigate those conversations and textual changes, designing a workplace accordingly, striking the right balance with generational attitudes and business needs, undertaking such changes against the backdrop of other firm concerns, and seeing the new legislation as a business opportunity.

The vital yet often under-discussed realm of work health and safety is a must-know for employers and employees. Education and clarity in this area help protect people in the workplace and avoid legal issues.

In this episode of The HR Leader, Kerry Kingham, chief executive of the Chooze Shop, sheds light on the multifaceted nature of workplace safety, its integration into organisational culture, and the evolving challenges in the era of remote and hybrid work.

Kingham emphasises the foundational role of work health and safety (WHS) in establishing a company’s culture and standards. Unfortunately, WHS often goes unnoticed until a crisis unfolds. The alignment of WHS policies with an organisation’s vision, mission, and values not only reinforces safety standards but also fosters a culture of care and responsibility.

She also points out the necessity of regular reskilling and upskilling to keep pace with evolving safety standards and risks. Moreover, the legal and compliance landscapes have become increasingly stringent, with negligence in WHS potentially leading to severe consequences.

The remote and hybrid work models can sow confusion with WHS, as it’s unclear where responsibility lies. Kingham stresses the extension of WHS responsibilities into the home office, challenging traditional boundaries of workplace safety.