Ep 659: Talent Complexity
Graham Abbey · November 30, 2024
Interview with Graham Abbey
Podcast: Recruiting Future with Matt Alder - What's Next For Talent Acquisition, HR & Hiring?
November 30, 2024
With organizations now having to navigate the rapid changes brought about by geopolitical instability, economic uncertainty, the ongoing climate emergency, and the surge in technology, it is clear that different ways of thinking about talent are needed. So, how can…
About Graham Abbey
CEO, Professor, and Author Leading Organizational Transformation through Purpose, Complexity, and Narrative
30+ years Working with organisations through transformation2 books Authored on talent and career developmentProfessor In Practice at University of Bristol Business SchoolPhD Organizational Change
Graham Abbey is a dynamic leader and organizational development expert, currently serving as Chief Executive at Farleigh Performance and a Professor in Practice at the University of Bristol. With over two decades of experience spanning corporate HR, consulting, and academia, Graham has helped numerous organizations, from global corporations to mid-sized businesses, address complex leadership and performance challenges. His work is grounded in a deep understanding of how organizations function as complex ecosystems, where success depends on navigating interconnected systems rather than following linear processes.
Graham’s expertise lies in transforming organizational culture, improving leadership capabilities, and fostering team performance. Drawing on his PhD in Organizational Change, Graham has a unique ability to frame workplace challenges as opportunities for learning and growth. His experience as Chief Purpose Officer at Tate & Lyle and Managing Director of BRIDGE EMEA has seen him collaborate with major companies such as HSBC, Mars, and Unilever, advising them on creating purposeful, high-performing cultures.
As a professor, consultant, and author, Graham advocates for a holistic approach to leadership and organizational development, emphasizing the power of narrative in shaping workplace dynamics. His forward-looking perspectives also encompass the evolving impact of AI and technology on organizational storytelling and performance.
About this episode
With organizations now having to navigate the rapid changes brought about by geopolitical instability, economic uncertainty, the ongoing climate emergency, and the surge in technology, it is clear that different ways of thinking about talent are needed.
So, how can organizations adapt to this complexity and prepare for a future where the old rules no longer apply? What should they consider when redefining their talent strategies in such a dynamic context?
My guest this is week isGraham Abbey, Professor in Practice at The University of Bristol Business School and CEO of Farleigh Performance.
From the importance of understanding the difference between complicated and complex systems to the potential of AI in reconnecting us to our humanity, Graham provides deep insights into creating the conditions for engagement, leadership, and performance and building an antifragile organization.
In the interview, we discuss:
Challenges and forces driving change
Thinking differently about talent
Changing to the organization metaphor
The difference between a complicated and complex system
How well are employers responding to change and uncertainty?
Skills based organizations
Discovery connectivity with AI
Talent Acquisition and hiring
Higher purpose, agency, relationships, and disruptive learning
Building an antifragile organization
How will we be talking about talent in five years time
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Guest: Graham Abbey
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