Executive influence: Getting your voice heard when the stakes are high

About this event

Part of our mid-career stream of monthly events for people professionals taking on more responsibility and broadening their influence.

How do you ensure the people perspective is heard when major organisational decisions are being made?

As people professionals progress into senior roles, they are increasingly expected to influence decisions that affect the workforce, culture and long-term success of their organisation.

Whether you're advocating for employee wellbeing during a restructuring, challenging a decision that could impact engagement, or presenting people insights to an executive team, your ability to influence can determine whether the people perspective is truly considered.

This session focuses on one of the most important responsibilities of senior people leaders: ensuring that the HR voice is heard when business decisions are being made.

Through practical examples, honest reflections and lessons learned, we'll explore what it takes to earn credibility, influence strategic decisions and ensure the people perspective is heard when it matters most.

We'll explore

• How to influence executive teams and senior stakeholders when the stakes are high
• Building the credibility needed to be seen as a strategic adviser rather than a functional expert
• Developing professional courage and knowing when to challenge decisions
• Balancing commercial priorities with people outcomes
• Navigating organisational politics, competing agendas and differing viewpoints
• Influencing decisions when you don't have formal authority
• Using evidence, insight and business understanding to strengthen your influence

You'll hear practical examples of

• Challenging executive decisions constructively while maintaining trust and credibility
• Securing buy-in for major people initiatives and organisational change programmes
• Influencing difficult conversations around restructuring, growth and organisational performance
• Using workforce insights and people data to support strategic decision-making
• Building trusted relationships with CEOs, executive teams and boards

You'll leave with

• Practical techniques for increasing your influence with senior leaders
• Greater confidence in high-stakes leadership conversations
• Tools for building professional courage and challenging constructively
• Insights into how experienced HR leaders navigate complex organisational environments
• Ideas you can apply immediately within your own organisation
• Connections with fellow CIPD members facing similar leadership challenges

About the Mid-Career series

As your career develops, so do the challenges and opportunities you face. Whether you're leading teams, influencing senior stakeholders, driving organisational change or preparing for your next role, the Mid-Career series is designed to support you at every stage of your professional journey.

Exclusively for CIPD members, these sessions bring together experienced people professionals from across sectors to learn from experts, share experiences and build valuable professional connections. Alongside practical insights, you'll gain access to peer support, fresh perspectives and the latest thinking from the CIPD and fellow practitioners facing similar challenges.

Because career development doesn't stop once you've gained experience. As your professional body, the CIPD is here to support you throughout your career, helping you build the confidence, skills, knowledge and network needed to increase your impact and progress towards your future career goals.

Please note:

1. Participants will receive their joining details 24 hours before the webinar, along with a reminder 15 minutes before the session begins.

2. The session may be recorded and shared afterwards.

3. The chat function will be used to engage with participants.

4. If there is an external speaker, their views will be their own and may not necessarily reflect those of the CIPD.

5. If any reasonable adjustments are required, participants are encouraged to make this known and assistance will be provided.