SWP - The Strategic Workforce Planning Podcast

Episode 57 of the SWP podcast welcomes back Peter Louch from Vemo.  I really enjoy chatting to Peter who not only bears the title 'The Coolest Man in SWP' but also (and arguably more importantly) has incredible insight into the challenges faced by many organisations.  This chat explores the talent marketplace vs external labor market analytics dynamic from the perspective of an individual who supports many high profile organsations globally with enhanced SWP outcomes.  Enjoy and thanks for joining me Pete!! 

Episode 56 of the SWP Podcast welcomes David Wilkins, Chief Product and Strategy Officer at TalentNeuron, to discuss the recent acquisition of HR Forecast and its implications for Strategic Workforce Planners. This insightful conversation explores what this acquisition could mean for the future of strategic workforce planning, with highlights on enhanced data analytics, deeper labor market insights, and improved predictive capabilities. David shares practical insights on how these new resources can benefit planners, helping them make better strategic decisions and optimize workforce strategies. A valuable episode for all SWP practitioners, especially those looking to leverage new tools and data-driven approaches. An engaging discussion with an expert guest not to mention one of the most authentic, engaging and all round fun people in SWP!

Episode 55 of the SWP Podcast welcomed practitioner and upcoming SWP Conference speaker, Dani Harrison to the show.  This important conversation looks at the Tesco journey with a number of really valuable lessons like 'don't try and do too much too early" and the value of a borrow/build approach to developing internal SWP capability.  A valuable episode for all practitioners but especially relevant to the 'early journey' listeners. Quality conversation with a delightful guest!

In episode 54 of the SWP Podcast, we welcome Phillipa Beltran and Sadhana Bhide from Pearson to dive into how advanced technologies like AI, data analytics, and automation are transforming strategic workforce planning. We discuss how predictive modeling helps organisations anticipate future workforce needs, identify skills gaps, and optimise talent strategies. We also explore how automation is streamlining HR processes, allowing HR teams to focus on more strategic tasks. Lastly, we emphasize the importance of continuous learning through technology-driven platforms, ensuring employees remain relevant in an evolving job market. Lovely chat with wonderful SWP and HR tech people! 

Episode 53 of the SWP Podcast welcomes Vijay Swaminathan, Co-founder and CEO of Draup to discuss key considerations around effective AI transition. Vijay has an incredible back story and is widely regarded as one of the forefathers of contemporary talent intelligence having founded Talent Neuron and, more recently, Draup .  This is an incredibly insightful and thought provoking conversation with a true captain in our industry.

Episode 52 of the SWP Podcast celebrates the growth and evolution of the SWP function at RTX (formerly Raytheon) in meeting the two newest members of the team ahead of SWP Conference - Austin.  Valentina Bernal and Janelle Hawes provided wonderful insights into the approach RTX have taken to develop a skills architecture across an organization of 180,000 + staff. A wonderful discussion with two very bright, capable workforce planners. 

Episode 51 of the SWP Podcast welcomes Erica Vermeij to talk us through how Boston Scientific stood up SWP in a 50,000 person organization in only 12 months. This is a great example of how big things can happen effectively in large organizations through effective stakeholder engagement, hard work and not trying to have everything perfect from the outset.  Some level of planning followed by refining and adjusting is far better than not starting at all.  An absolute pleasure to speak to and all round delightful human being!

Join us for a very special 50th episode of the SWP Podcast in collaboration with the Reimagined Workforce Podcast. WPI Chair and usual host of the SWP Podcast, Nick Kennedy switches seats and invites host and director of Workforce Transformations Australia, Kath Hume to welcome a distinguished panel of global experts to discuss the new Certified Practicing Program for Strategic Workforce Planning (CP-SWP). In addition to Nick, Kath is also joined by: • Alicia Roach, Co-Founder of eQ8 • Adam Gibson, Head of Strategic Workforce Planning for EYTogether, they delve into the evolution of the certification program, its purpose, and the rigorous criteria established to recognise and credential strategic workforce planning professionals worldwide. This conversation provides invaluable insights into the future of workforce planning, the importance of global standards, and the impact of this certification on both organizations and practitioners.Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in the field, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the advancements and future trends in strategic workforce planning. Tune in to learn from the best and stay ahead in this dynamic and ever-evolving discipline.Don't miss out on this insightful and inspiring discussion!

Episode 48 of the SWP Podcast features  Jacque Flusche, Enterprise Workforce Planning Technology and Business Transformation lead at Lockheed Martin. Jacque and I explored the implementation of strategic workforce planning at Lockheed Martin, and the strategic drivers behind this approach. Jacque shares key challenges encountered, the custom approaches tailored to Lockheed Martin's needs, and the impact on business operations. We also explored the integration of technology in SWP, lessons learned, and future plans for further developing their SWP strategy. Another fantastic discussion with a wonderful SWP advocate!

In episode 47 of the SWP Podcast, I spoke with Patrick White, Senior Director of the Office of Labour and Economic Analysis at the United States Department of the Air Force. We discussed how Patrick found his way into SWP, the benefits of centralizing SWP processes under budget constraints, and how this approach can optimize resources, mitigate risks, and align with strategic priorities. They also explore challenges of implementation, the role of technology, and advice for organizations on centralized vs. decentralized models. Plus, a sneak peek into Patrick’s upcoming session in Austin. What a delightful guest and insightful discussion,