In this episode of the Vantage Influencers Podcast, we will be discussing HR's real role in acquisitions, not as a support function, but as a strategic force driving integration, culture, and performance turnarounds.

Host Shabana is joined by Maher Sabbagh, a leader who has not only witnessed acquisitions, but also led people transformations across some of the most complex markets in the world.

This episode unpacks HR's true influence in making or breaking acquisitions from early involvement and cultural integration to rebuilding trust during uncertainty. Drawing from real-world turnaround experiences, we explore how HR aligns leadership, manages tough people decisions, and accelerates post-acquisition performance.

In this episode of the Vantage HR Influencers Podcast, Host Shabana is joined by Srijith Nair, who draws on nearly three decades of his professional experience, and busts the most prominent myths about 'leadership' in the corporate world. Whether you're an HR leader or a decision-maker, this episode offers actionable insights to optimize your leadership strategy and drive success within your organization. Tune in for expert advice on designing leadership structures that propel your business forward!

In this episode of the Vantage HR Influencers Podcast, Pooja Malhotra, Head HR India at StoneX Group Inc., shares practical insights on how employee feedback can be leveraged to shape effective policies and enhance engagement. She discusses the growing importance of structured feedback systems in understanding employee needs, building trust, and creating policies that reflect real workplace realities. Pooja Malhotra explains how feedback-driven decision-making can strengthen HR practices, improve the employee experience, and drive sustainable engagement, offering actionable insights for HR leaders and decision-makers looking to create more responsive, people-centric organizations.

In this episode of the Vantage HR Influencers Podcast, Kiran Steven, COE - Talent Management at Jockey & Speedo, shares valuable insights on how leadership architecture is a key driver of organizational success. He discusses the critical role of designing effective leadership models that foster a strong company culture, enhance decision-making, and build high-performing teams. Kiran Steven highlights how leadership architecture can transform HR practices and drive long-term success within organizations, offering actionable advice for HR leaders looking to optimize leadership frameworks and achieve sustainable growth.

In this episode of the Vantage HR Influencers Podcast, John Sansoucie, Chairman and CEO of CogNet, shares valuable insights on how back office outsourcing is quietly redefining the way HR teams work. He discusses the significant impact of outsourcing non-core HR functions, enabling HR leaders to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and focus on more strategic priorities. John highlights how this shift is transforming HR practices and driving long-term success in organizations, offering actionable advice for HR leaders looking to leverage outsourcing for a more effective and impactful HR function.

We're talking about burnout in healthcare, not just the long hours and exhaustion we always hear, but the deeper layers that often go unnoticed. And more importantly, how resilience can move from being a crisis response to something that's genuinely built into the culture. To help us explore this, I'm joined by someone who's been closely involved in understanding these challenges and supporting those on the front lines — Dr. Amit Singh, Chief Human Resources Officer, CARE Hospitals

Frontline hiring has always been fast-paced, but lately it feels like we're in the middle of a complete reset. Candidates are choosing jobs differently, expectations are shifting, and the old playbooks really aren't holding up anymore. Even with better tools, more data, and smarter strategies, companies are still struggling to attract and keep frontline talent. So clearly, something deeper is going on beneath the surface.

And to break this down with us, I'm joined by someone who's been watching these changes unfold in real time, Trent Cotton, Head of Talent Acquisition Insights & Analyst Relations at iCIMS.

Mentoring and coaching, two words often used interchangeably, yet they shape workplace culture in profoundly different ways. When you look closer, the nuances reveal powerful insights into how organizations can drive equity, nurture belonging, and boost retention.

To dive into this layered conversation, I'm joined by Lindiwe Davis — Founder of FutureState Collective Group and The Couch Coach. She is also an Organizational Effectiveness & People Engagement Leader at Google, serving as one of Google's Culture Coaches, and a podcaster who has spent years guiding leaders and teams to build inclusive, thriving workplace cultures.

Host of this Episode: Sanjeevani Saikia

In this episode of the Vantage HR Influencers Podcast, David Hanrahan, Senior Vice President of People Success at SolarWinds, shares valuable insights on how embedding mental health into company culture drives business success and long-term resilience. He discusses how HR leaders can create a supportive environment that enhances employee engagement, productivity, and overall organizational well-being. David highlights the critical role of prioritizing mental health in fostering a thriving workforce and building resilience in today's dynamic business landscape.

In this episode of the Vantage HR Influencers Podcast, Jason Desentz, Chief Human Resource Officer at Toshiba, shares valuable insights on how listening, learning, and vulnerability help build trust in HR leadership. He discusses how HR leaders can foster deeper connections with their teams and navigate change with empathy and authenticity. With his vast experience in leading HR functions globally, Jason emphasizes the critical role of active listening, continuous learning, and vulnerability in developing leadership that inspires trust and collaboration in today's fast-evolving work environment.