“HR Heretics” | How CPOs, CHROs, Founders, and Boards Build High Performing Companies Why 50% of CEO-HR "Marriages" End in Divorce with Colleen McCreary
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Jul 1, 2025 Colleen McCreary, a seasoned Chief People Officer, dives into the intriguing world of CEO-HR relationships, discussing why nearly half of these partnerships end in 'divorce.' She shares insights on how traditional interviews often overlook compatibility, suggesting that proactive communication is key. Colleen emphasizes the importance of addressing conflicts early and maintaining emotional intelligence in high-pressure situations. Listeners gain valuable strategies for building authentic connections and reflecting on the lasting impact of their professional relationships.
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VC's CEO-HR Breakup Story
- A VC called Colleen about a CEO and head of HR whose six-month partnership failed despite a thorough interview process.
- The experience illustrates that half of CEO-HR "marriages" end in divorce and that compatibility issues often arise unexpectedly.
Address Hard Topics Early
- Discuss the ugly, hard topics early in interviews to uncover how leaders handle crises.
- Understanding triggers and responses to tough situations helps foresee potential incompatibility.
Communicate With Levity
- Filter issues before bringing them to the CEO, presenting them in a way that's easy to hear.
- Use a light, casual tone to avoid overwhelming or annoying the founder and to maintain open communication.