In this episode of HCM Minds at Work, Christian Gomez sits down with Dr. Robert Rustman, vice president of human resources at Lakeshore Recycling Systems (LRS), to explore how employee engagement can fundamentally reshape culture and business outcomes. Dr. Rustman shares how LRS launched its first engagement survey, branded “Your Voice,” and used the insights to drive meaningful cultural change across the organization.

From navigating the shift from Fortune 20 processes to leading a more agile, people-first HR function, Dr. Rustman offers candid lessons on building trust, empowering leaders and using technology to free HR from tactical work so they can focus on strategy. Whether you’re an HR leader, executive or aspiring changemaker, this conversation highlights how intentional employee engagement can spark transformation and deliver true return on investment (ROI).