Run Time: 36:57
‘Authenticity Travels Well’
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Jennifer Palmieri is chief people officer at Westfield, which certainly isn’t a regional p/c carrier anymore. She has witnessed much growth in specialty lines and international risks, and the company is on its way to $5 billion in revenues and 3,500 employees. We checked in with Jen on how HR strategies are playing out. Her leadership philosophy “centers on authenticity, shared accountability and purpose,” she says. “That means leading with transparency and deeply listening. And to really understand what motivates people. When that happens, you see people flourish and develop and transform companies, businesses, cultures in an exceptional way.” As for the “listening” part, Jen admits it’s “really hard,” but she focuses on it daily. “We live in a highly distracted world. One thing I learned early in my career — and it’s an old leadership philosophy — is, ‘Be here now.’” The employer brand is on her mind as well, especially with talent needs and expectations differing by region. “Employer branding in a competitive talent market obviously is essential. We like to reflect on our purpose. Being authentic — that travels well.” With five generations working side-by-side, she says “each brings something valuable. Boomers have deep experience and history and perspective. Younger people are highly digital and focused on flexibility. How do we create a culture that honors the differences and… creates something we can all harness together?” So Westfield fosters mentorship across generations. Finally, Jen advises younger professionals: “Be more curious, ask more questions, ask more about ‘the why.’ Be more thoughtful and intentional about your work.”
