In this episode of the Work Matters Podcast, host Thomas Bertels is joined by Jesse Jacoby, founder of Emergent Consultants, to discuss best practices for managing layoffs and how to minimize negative impact on morale and productivity. Jesse delve into the roles of senior leaders and middle managers, the hidden costs of mishandling layoffs, the critical importance of clear communication, and the impact of AI.

Jesse Jacoby has led enterprise transformation efforts for leading companies. His work spans complex initiatives such as corporate restructuring, organizational redesign, mergers and acquisitions, technology implementation, process reengineering, and enterprise-wide cost reduction. Known for his ability to align people, processes, and strategy, Jesse helps clients accelerate progress and sustain meaningful change.

Use the following links to learn more about Jesse and to connect with him: Website: https://emergentconsultants.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jjacoby/

Episode Flow:

00:00 Introduction

02:00 The Hidden Costs of Layoffs

03:01 Alternatives to Layoffs

04:36 Role of Senior Leaders in Layoffs

06:07 Role of Middle Managers in Layoffs

16:25 Effective Communication Strategies

18:55 Impact of AI on Layoffs

23:22 Successful Layoff Strategies

31:20 Conclusion and Contact Information

Steve Degnan is the former CHRO for Nestle Purina North America, a role he held for nearly two decades under three different CEOs. In conversation with host Thomas Bertels, Steve offers his views on what good HR looks like, where the biggest opportunities are for HR to add real value , why seizing these opportunities is often challenging, and what the future holds for the HR function. He shares his take on the impact of AI and the need for HR to maintain human elements in an increasingly automated world.

About Steve Degnan:

Steve Steve’s professional journey began at Nestle as a Production Supervisor in a coffee factory. He later transitioned into logistics and industrial performance roles before finding his calling in the HR organization. Steve’s career culminated in his role as CHRO of the newly acquired St. Louis-based Purina Petcare business, where he served until his retirement in 2023. Throughout his tenure, Steve managed the succession of several CEOs and leadership teams, and designed and led the succession/people practices that produced them. He spearheaded multiple restructuring efforts and transformations, assessed M&A targets, and integrated businesses. These days in addition to finishing a book project, Steve serves on several non-profit boards and provides coaching and advisory services. In his spare time, Steve enjoys staying fit, following college basketball (especially his La Salle Explorers), spending time with family and friends, and spoiling his 9-year-old Labrador Retriever, Angel.

To learn more about Steve and his work, visit https://www.stevedegnan.com.

To follow Steve on social media, visit https://linktr.ee/skd7777.

In this episode of the Work Matters Podcast, host Thomas Bertels and Patrick Farran talk about the power of co-creation. The conversation highlights the importance of involving team members in decision-making processes for significant change initiatives, because people value what they help create. Patrick explains the benefits and challenges of a co-creation approach and provides scenarios where co-creation is effective, such as strategic planning and job crafting, and cautions against performative co-creation. The discussion also touches on appreciative inquiry, the necessity for psychological safety, and the mindset shifts required for leaders to successfully implement co-creation. Patrick shares practical tips for leaders to start small with everyday interactions, ensuring clarity of processes and fostering an environment of constructive conflict and collaboration.

00:00 Introduction to Co-Creation

00:59 Defining Co-Creation

01:49 Pros and Cons of Co-Creation

04:39 Examples and Applications of Co-Creation

06:18 Challenges and Leadership Mindset

10:09 Appreciative Inquiry and Co-Creation

11:35 Getting Started with Co-Creation

14:52 Prerequisites for Successful Co-Creation

25:13 Final Thoughts

Use these links to connect and learn more about Patrick and his upcoming book, 'The Intentional Executive,' which aims to guide leaders in being more intentional and effective in their roles.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickfarran/

Website: http://www.adlucemgroup.com

Book: https://adlucemgroup.com/the-intentional-executive-prelaunch/