Kristy Sundjaja, Chief People Officer at Taboola and former engineer, shares her journey of merging technology with HR leadership. She emphasizes the transformative power of AI in automating tasks while retaining a human touch. Key insights include the importance of vulnerability in leadership, preparing HR teams for tech changes, and how Taboola crafts personalized employee experiences using AI. Kristy also discusses balancing personal ambitions with well-being, advocating for self-care among HR leaders in an evolving workplace.
AI serves as a catalyst for transforming HR practices by automating tasks and enabling HR teams to focus on strategic initiatives.
Embracing vulnerability as a leader fosters trust and collaboration, essential for navigating the evolving landscape of HR technology.
Deep dives
Embracing Technological Change in HR
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands out as a transformative force within human resources. As new technologies emerge, HR professionals increasingly view them as opportunities rather than threats. This mindset shift allows companies to adapt and leverage AI for efficiency, driving towards a culture of innovation and problem-solving. By acknowledging that technology can enhance operations, HR leaders can create an environment where employees focus on strategic initiatives instead of routine tasks.
From Engineer to Chief People Officer
The speaker's unique trajectory from an engineering background to becoming a Chief People Officer highlights the evolving nature of leadership in HR. Initially embarking on a career in technology, the speaker shifted to strategic roles that intertwined business operations with people management. This transition showcases how technical expertise can inform and enrich HR practices, blending operational acumen with empathy and understanding of human capital. The journey encourages the exploration of diverse career paths within the HR landscape, demonstrating that varied experiences contribute to effective leadership.
The Role of AI in Recruitment
AI's impact on recruitment is twofold: it automates administrative tasks while enhancing the strategic role of HR professionals. By streamlining processes such as CV screening, organizations can allocate talent to more meaningful tasks, fostering deeper candidate engagement. This shift enables HR teams to focus on interviews and relationship-building rather than paperwork, encouraging a more personalized approach during the hiring process. As AI becomes integrated into recruiting strategies, HR teams are empowered to employ data-driven insights to improve hiring decisions.
Navigating AI Integration and Employee Concerns
As organizations implement AI technologies, there can be apprehension among employees regarding job security and changes in roles. However, the speaker emphasizes that AI is designed to empower employees rather than replace them, allowing HR teams to focus on higher-value interactions. Clear communication about AI's purpose and fostering a culture of continuous learning can mitigate fears and equip employees with the skills needed to thrive in an evolving workspace. This proactive approach positions HR as an enabler of both technological adoption and employee development.
In today’s episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we welcome Kristy Sundjaja, Chief People Officer at Taboola. Kristy S. shares her unique journey from engineering to HR leadership, highlighting how her technical background shapes her approach to transforming HR practices.
She dives into the evolving role of AI in HR, the importance of scaling people operations, and how HR leaders can lead the way in adopting innovative technologies. Kristy also reflects on the significance of embracing vulnerability as a leader and balancing personal growth with professional ambitions.
🎓 In this episode, Kristy discusses:
Why vulnerability in leadership builds trust and collaboration
Strategies to prepare HR teams for rapid technological changes
The power of AI in transforming HR practices and automating tasks
How HR teams can scale their impact while staying small and effective
How Taboola is leveraging AI to create personalized employee experiences