Balancing Vision and Metrics: Tracey Jenkins’ Playbook for HR Leadership

Success isn’t solely measured in numbers and metrics; it’s about creating a workplace where your greatest asset, your employees, can truly thrive. Recently, I had the pleasure of discovering a company that not only excelled in achieving impressive metrics but also demonstrated a genuine commitment to caring leadership and listening to their employees.

The first pillar of their success lies in the simple yet powerful act of active listening. This company took the time to engage with their employees, seeking to understand their priorities and concerns. In doing so, they showcased a genuine commitment to valuing diverse perspectives within their organization. As leaders, listening is a potent tool that fosters trust and creates a workplace where every voice is heard.

Secondly, this company prioritized employee well-being by placing it at the forefront of their Employee Value Proposition (EVP). By aligning organizational goals with the needs of their workforce, they demonstrated a clear understanding that success is not achieved at the expense of their employees’ happiness and fulfillment. This deliberate focus on creating a workplace where employees feel valued is a crucial step towards building a thriving and sustainable business.

What truly impressed me was their strategic use of data to confirm the success of their initiatives. It’s not enough to simply implement employee-centric programs; measuring their impact is key. This company achieved an outstanding 77% engagement rate and tripled survey participation by leveraging data to understand the effectiveness of their efforts. This commitment to measurement and analysis is a testament to their dedication to continuous improvement.

The results speak for themselves – an average employee tenure of 7 years, nearly triple the industry standard. This success is not a stroke of luck; it’s a direct outcome of prioritizing employee well-being. This isn’t just a “nice-to-have” element; it’s a fundamental component of building a thriving and enduring business.

I had the privilege of discussing these insights with Tracey Jenkins on my podcast, and the depth of her knowledge on employee engagement, community-building, and fostering genuine connections within an organization was truly enlightening. For HR leaders and executives seeking guidance on replicating this success within their organizations, I highly recommend listening to this episode, or seeking out help.

The success of this company is a shining example of how these principles can not only elevate your metrics but also create a workplace where your employees thrive for years to come.

About this episode

In this engaging episode, Heather interviews Tracey Jenkins, the HR leader for Sodexo Live’s sports and entertainment business in North America. Tracey discusses the impactful strategies that revitalized Sodexo Live’s growth after the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. With a workforce of over 26,000, predominantly casual or part-time, Tracey explores the visionary leadership that fueled the company’s resurgence. The conversation centers on Sodexo Live’s Global Employee Value Proposition (EVP), emphasizing inclusivity, acceptance, and career pathways. Tracey highlights the company’s commitment to diversity and creating exceptional employee experiences, drawing parallels to the memorable moments in venues like ballparks. The episode also delves into the delicate balance between visionary leadership and data-driven strategies, providing valuable insights for leaders navigating transformative growth.