Popular topics get a renewed analysis.
How do I get a seat at the table? That question echoes loudly and often from a cadre of talent development executives just like yourself who are fighting for their people initiatives to be noticed, respected, and—most importantly—funded.
Take heart. You're not alone in your quest to prove the value of talent development to your C-suite peers. And although you may not be sitting comfortably in the boardroom yet, many organizations are paving the way for you. This issue of CTDO magazine spotlights EY's vice chair for talent, Nancy Altobello, who began her career in business, a growing trend among talent development leaders. Altobello explains, "When you've done the work and been in the field working with clients, it really helps make sure the talent agenda is aligned with where the business is going."
Strong business acumen and strategic thinking skills are critical for talent development executives who want their goals to earn a spot on the company's scorecard. Altobello reports directly to EY's global chairman and CEO, Mark A. Weinberger, who understands the necessity of a healthy talent development function. "We have worked hard to integrate talent into our strategy, as developing our people is not just an initiative—it is the lifeblood of our organization," Weinberger says.
The Summer 2016 issue of CTDO is ripe with fresh perspective on popular topics that chief talent development officers have niggled over for some time. Angst Index describes how you can build a culture of innovation that frontline employees will actually buy into. Prove It explores practical ways to foster strategic alignment. And in Debate, trainers go head-to-head with subject matter experts, as thought leaders on both sides argue: Who's the better teacher? See who comes out on top.
Be sure to read Hot Topic, one of my favorite articles this issue. Author Ray Williams writes about a new era to come: "We are in the midst of a revolution, occasioned by the disappearance of a massive number of jobs as we know them. We are experiencing the end of work as we know it." Williams outlines several trends of the future workplace that pose challenges to talent development executives by significantly impacting strategic thinking and decision making. He balances just enough doomsday prose with thoughtful questions for consideration to keep you on your toes.
Thank you for your interest in CTDO magazine, full of essential insight for leaders like you. As always, I’d love to hear your feedback about this issue. What article was your favorite? Which column is most beneficial in helping to inform your role as a talent development executive? Please contact me at any time with your thoughts.
Ann Parker
ATD Community of Practice Manager
Senior Leaders & Executives
aparker@td.org
Read more from CTDO magazine: Essential talent development content for C-suite leaders.
