SummaryMany companies still see HR as the department that runs surveys, manages benefits, and plans the occasional happy hour—but Stephanie Manzelli is on a mission to change that. As Chief People Officer at Employ, Steph has built a career transforming HR from an administrative function into a true driver of business performance. In this episode, she shares how decentralizing engagement survey action plans boosted team performance and retention, why speaking the language of finance and operations changes the perception of HR, and how courage in difficult moments can reshape strategic conversations.From tackling failing business models to uniting multiple microcultures into one cohesive company, Steph’s journey is packed with actionable lessons for HR leaders, executives, and anyone looking to lead with both empathy and impact.Timestamps[00:01] – Introduction and Steph’s career journey from finance to HR leadership[00:44] – The career-defining moment that shifted HR from administrator to strategic partner[02:54] – How decentralizing action planning improved engagement by up to 50%[04:16] – Overcoming challenges: Finding the courage to say what others won’t[06:31] – The legacy Steph hopes to leave as an HR leader[07:59] – Parting advice: Why HR must be a compass, not just a mirrorTakeawaysRedefine HR’s role by embedding people strategies into core business planningDecentralize engagement initiatives to empower frontline leaders with ownershipMeasure culture changes with hard metrics like attrition, team performance, and sales impactBuild credibility by speaking the language of finance, operations, and growthUse courage and empathy to voice hard truths that open the door for strategic changeDon’t wait for permission to lead strategically—understand the business deeply and actOur SponsorPrevi is an employer network that provides private pricing for employees. Joining the Previ network allows employees to save on necessities they already pay for, such as cell phone service and insurance. Previ saves the average employee $2,200/year. ⁠Join at no cost to the company.⁠

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