The Modern People Leader: Forward-Thinking HR 239 - Helen Russell (Chief People Officer, HubSpot): The growing trust gap at work
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Jul 11, 2025 Helen Russell, Chief People Officer at HubSpot, dives into fostering an AI-first culture and the pressing importance of belonging in the workplace. She discusses how HR leaders can balance urgency with a human-centered approach, especially during times of change. The conversation highlights the evolution of HubSpot’s talent strategy and the critical role trust plays in employee engagement. Russell also shares insights on integrating AI tools to enhance connection and productivity, ensuring that culture remains a priority in a tech-driven environment.
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Personal And Professional Milestones
- Helen celebrated a personal milestone: her oldest son graduating university.
- She also announced HubSpot's evolved cultural commitments as a recent professional highlight.
HR Peers Are Only Weeks Apart On AI
- HR leaders are clustered only weeks apart in AI readiness, so adoption feels like a fast-moving bandwagon.
- Top HR concerns remain RTO, AI, DEI/belonging, and manager overload.
Belonging Drives Engagement And Retention
- Trust in companies has fallen since COVID, making employees more guarded at work.
- Helen Russell finds belonging now most strongly predicts engagement, retention, and advocacy.