Revolutionising HR Practice - Future Workplace Forum 2024

The Business School is excited to be partnering with the Human Resources Institute of New Zealand (HRNZ) to bring academics and professionals the first in-person HR conference for 2024. Taking place on 7 November at the Pullman Hotel in Auckland, the Future Workplace Forum is “a premier event in New Zealand’s HR industry”, says HRNZ Senior Communications Advisor Nikita Barends. “It serves as a key platform for HR leaders to engage with both the latest academic research and practical strategies for navigating a rapidly changing work environment.”

However, the Forum’s HR focus should not deter potential participants from outside the industry, notes Dr Deepika Jindal, Programme Director of the Master of Business Management at the Business School. “It’s designed for a diverse audience. This conference promises to be a valuable experience for anyone looking to stay informed and engaged with the latest developments in the world of work – business leaders, academics and researchers, and students, as well as HR professionals.”

This year’s Forum will explore the three fundamental shifts set to revolutionise workplaces of the future: the changing workforce demographics in New Zealand; the rapid advancement of technologies including AI; and the need for building sustainable organisations. It’s this third shift that particularly interests Deepika. “This trend is crucial for the long-term viability of businesses and people,” she observes. “By fostering inclusive and equitable workplaces, sustainable organisations contribute to social well-being. This includes fair labour practices, diversity and inclusion initiatives, flexible work practices, and community engagement, among others. This shift is essential for creating resilient, responsible, and forward-thinking workplaces that can adapt to the evolving demands of the global economy.”

Reflecting the vital role academic research plays in empowering industry professionals, two Business School academics will share their knowledge at the conference. Dr Nimbus Staniland, Senior Lecturer in Management and International Business, will present a session titled “Māori Workforce: Driving Positive Workplace Change”, while Dr Jo Mutter, Lecturer in Management and International Business, will be part of a panel discussing “The Changing Ways of Working – Hybrid, Remote, output vs hours – The New Norm?”

Academics bring fresh, evidence-based ideas that HR practitioners can quickly put into action, points out Jo. “When academics and practitioners connect, research becomes more practical and immediately valuable.” Deepika agrees. “The perspectives and expertise of our academics are crucial at events like this because they provide a bridge between cutting-edge research and practical application. They introduce evidence-based practices that can improve HR strategies and outcomes; they can highlight emerging trends, helping practitioners stay ahead of the curve; and they can provide fresh perspectives that can lead to more effective problem-solving.”

In other words, there’s much to be gained from attending the conference – not least, an understanding of the key trends reshaping our workplaces. “While these changes bring challenges, they also present huge opportunities to address enduring issues, such as New Zealand’s productivity challenges,” notes Jo. “By understanding these shifts, we can adapt and harness these changes to create more fulfilling and productive work environments.” The packed agenda features practical workshops and thought-provoking presentations, all designed to equip attendees with actionable strategies for implementing these changes.

By bringing together academics and industry professionals to share their knowledge and expertise, the Future Workplace Forum also highlights the importance of the partnership between the Business School and HRNZ. “The partnership grew from a shared focus on advancing HR through innovation and research,” explains Nikita. “It connects HRNZ members with the latest academic insights, helping them prepare for the future of work. It also fosters networking opportunities that can lead to future collaborations and innovations in HR practices.” The collaboration reinforces the Business School’s role as a thought leader, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development with the HR community, adds Deepika. “Partnerships such as these enrich the professional development of HR practitioners and contributes to the advancement of the HR field as a whole.”

Ultimately, the Future Workplace Forum offers an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences with like-minded professionals passionate about transforming New Zealand’s workplaces. “Over the past five years, HR practice has undergone significant transformations driven by technological advancements, changing workforce dynamics, and evolving societal expectations,” says Deepika. “I believe that by staying attuned to these changes, HR professionals can better support their organisations and contribute to creating resilient, adaptive, and forward-thinking workplaces.”