Some weeks ago I had the opportunity to attend our INAC EMEA Annual Regional Meeting in Madrid, Spain, and I have to say, it was an eye-opening experience. When you attend such events, you expect insightful discussions, but the depth and relevance of the conversations around the future of Human Resources was truly unexpected. It was one of those moments where you leave the room with more questions than answers, constantly reflecting on the direction our profession is heading.
A standout moment was the insightful talk by Carlos Olave, Global HR Strategy Head at LG Electronics and Carlos Romero-Camacho, Chief People & Corporate Officer at Insud Pharma. Both leaders shared their perspectives on the biggest challenges currently shaping global HR, offering valuable insights into how organizations are making key decisions to stay ahead of the curve in the evolving world of work.
A recurring theme throughout the event was the necessary change in organizational culture. Companies can no longer afford to stick with traditional models. Transforming internal culture has become a vital process, not only in response to new market demands but also as a driver of innovation and growth. They are reinventing its internal processes to be more agile, flexible, and, most importantly, more human. HR leaders have the responsibility to ensure that their teams are not only prepared for technological challenges but also for the cultural evolution that these changes require.
Of course, the conversation didn’t stop at culture. It also explored the skills that employees will need to thrive in the future. The introduction of new technologies and the shift towards a more B2B approach in many sectors are creating constant pressure for HR leaders to redesign training and development programs.
Both Carlos Olave and Carlos Romero-Camacho, discussed how they are prioritizing the acquisition of new skills in areas such as artificial intelligence, automation, and managing complex projects. This is a clear reminder that HR leaders not only need to manage today’s talent but also prepare their teams for the roles of tomorrow, anticipating demands that are yet to come.
During the session, one of the most emphasized points was the need to develop a more integrated talent strategy, one that focuses not just on hiring but on retaining and developing talent within the organization. HR leaders need to become strategic architects, beginning by investing in inclusive leadership programs and technological skills development to prepare their team for what lies ahead The key, as both speakers discussed, is understanding that the future of companies depend on a trained workforce that is aligned with the company’s values and strategic vision.
Although companies have different business models and challenges, the shared vision of preparing talent for the future, creative inclusive cultures, and adapting to change is something common for everyone.
Carlos Olave and Carlos Romero-Camacho didn’t just leave us with valuable insights about the future of work, they also gave us the conviction that, together, with HR leaders, we can make the future of Human Resources stronger. We must be catalysts for this change, guiding our teams toward the future through continuous learning, adaptation, and most importantly mutual support.
Are you preparing your organization for the future of work?
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Alessandra Zubiani, Senior Advisor, GSO Consulting (INAC Italy)
With over 20 years of experience in both international and domestic executive search firms, her expertise lies in the industrial market. She has worked with clients across diverse sectors, including Oil & Gas, Renewables, Industrial Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Devices, Automotive, Industrial Automation, Chemicals, and Design.
She has also supported international clients in establishing their businesses in Italy, offering strategic guidance on the local labor market.
