At the Irresistible 2024 conference by The Josh Bersin Company, two exceptional HR leaders, Ty Breland from Marriott International and Joanne Smith from Delta Air Lines, were honored with the prestigious “HR Hero” awards. Their unwavering dedication to employee well-being amid pandemic challenges sets a new standard for transformative HR leadership.
- Marriott International’s Resilience Strategy:
- Swift response to pandemic challenges with the “Growing Forward” strategy.
- Introduction of comprehensive well-being programs, stock purchase options, and innovative leadership initiatives.
- Emphasis on inclusivity through revamped Associate Resource Groups and career advancement opportunities.
- Delta Air Lines’ Pandemic Support Mode:
- Transitioning into pandemic support mode to address workforce needs during economic shutdowns.
- Strategic management of unpaid leaves of absence to prevent furloughs, followed by a massive employment and onboarding initiative.
- Alignment with core corporate values, evolving “perseverance” into “resilience” for remarkable outcomes.
- The Human Touch in HR Leadership:
- Recognition of Ty Breland and Joanne Smith’s exceptional leadership by Josh Bersin.
- Acknowledgment of the broader HR profession’s commitment to human-centric approaches during challenging times.
- Celebration of Marriott International and Delta Air Lines’ teams for embodying resilience and connection.
Ty Breland and Joanne Smith exemplify the essence of HR heroism, spearheading transformative initiatives that prioritize employee well-being and organizational resilience. Their dedication reflects a broader commitment within the HR profession to uphold humanity and connection in the face of adversity.
