Resilience and Passion in Career Advancement with Gena Smith

Gena Smith, CHRO at LVMH North America, shares her extraordinary journey from Texas to Greece and eventually to the vibrant corporate world of New York. Learn how Gena’s international exposure and unique educational path shaped her career, offering invaluable lessons on adaptability and seizing opportunities. Listen in as she recounts her transition from executive recruitment to a pivotal leadership role at LVMH, emphasizing the transformative power of diverse experiences in shaping a successful career.

Discover the intricacies of managing talent across LVMH’s 75 maisons, where brand desirability and structured career development plans attract and nurture top-tier talent. Gena explains the implementation of AI-driven talent marketplaces for better skill matching and the importance of humility, agility, and curiosity in high-potential employees. This episode provides a deep dive into the strategic processes that keep LVMH dynamic, balancing internal promotions with external recruitment.

Engage in a compelling discussion on sustaining brand relevance by balancing innovation with heritage, and how this dynamic is managed within decentralized, entrepreneurial structures. Gena also highlights LVMH’s comprehensive programs to enhance employee well-being, from mental health support to financial acumen. Gain insights from the Métiers d'Excellence program that trains apprentices in vital, rare crafts, and understand the importance of feedback and personal growth in professional development. This episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories for anyone looking to navigate their career with resilience and passion.