Changing Needs of the Workforce

Summary

As organizations navigate the post-pandemic landscape, the workforce’s expectations regarding where and how work is done are shifting rapidly. For some, remote and hybrid models have become the new normal; for others, returning to physical workplaces has reignited conversations about culture, collaboration, and equity. Yet across industries, one truth is clear: the workforce demands flexibility, purpose-driven engagement, and meaningful support for well-being.

Senior HR leaders are now at the crossroads of competing priorities—balancing organizational strategy with employee needs while responding to broader societal shifts. Emerging challenges include sustaining productivity across distributed teams, ensuring fairness in hybrid policies, maintaining connection and trust, and reimagining leadership for a workforce that craves autonomy and inclusivity.

This session explores:

• Whether flexible work models are a settled standard or remain fluid and context-driven.
• The evolving psychological and cultural needs of employees in hybrid and remote environments.
• The leadership mindset required to lead effectively in this dynamic context.
• Strategic considerations and implications for Senior HR leaders tasked with shaping the future of work.
• Participants will gain insight into navigating these complexities while fostering resilience, innovation, and engagement in their organizations.

Presenters

Alana Painter Alana is the Director of Human Capital at The Conference Board of Canada, where she leads research and convening efforts to help organizations navigate the evolving world of talent management. With nearly two decades of prior consulting experience with a focus on employee measurement, Alana has advised organizations of all sizes across sectors, translating complex data into actionable strategies. A skilled facilitator and educator, she brings a passion for helping leaders make informed, people-focused decisions that drive organizational success.

Aleksandra Pressey Aleksandra is a partner at Williams HR Law LLP, where she practices in all areas of labour, employment, and human rights law. She provides strategic advice and representation on issues including accommodation, discipline, termination, and legislative compliance. Aleksandra also conducts complex, trauma-informed workplace investigations and organizational culture reviews as a neutral third party across a range of sectors, including municipalities. A frequent speaker and writer, she also conducts training on a variety of HR law topics.