In Episode 23 of Talkin’ Talent, host Sam McCarthy explores the powerful dynamic between accounting/finance and human resources (HR) leadership with Nicole Peace, Chief People Officer at AIS, and Kristyn Reed, an experienced chief financial officer (CFO) at emerging and growth tech companies. Together, they unpack how collaboration between CFOs and chief human resources officer (CHROs) or chief people officers (CPOs) can drive strategic growth, improve employee engagement and align people strategies with business outcomes.

Nicole and Kristyn share candid stories from their careers, offering insights into how HR has evolved from a compliance function to a strategic partner. They discuss the importance of transparency, business acumen, and mutual respect in building a successful partnership between finance and people leaders.

Whether you're a CFO, HR leader or aspiring executive, this episode offers practical advice on fostering cross-functional collaboration and elevating the role of HR in your organization.

This episode covers:

• The evolving relationship between CFOs and CHROs/CPOs
• Why HR deserves a seat at the executive table
• How to build business acumen and credibility in HR
• Transparent budgeting and strategic workforce planning
• When HR should report directly to the CEO.

Listen now and gain actionable insights on how to strengthen the finance–HR partnership in your organization.

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In this episode of Talkin' Talent, host Sam McCarthy sits down with human resources (HR) leaders Julia Medvin and Chelsea Stearns to explore the evolving landscape of talent acquisition, particularly in the context of artificial intelligence (AI). They discuss how AI is reshaping the applicant experience and the challenges it presents in discerning genuine talent from embellished resumes.

As organizations adapt to the increasing influence of AI tools like ChatGPT, Julia and Chelsea share their insights on the changing expectations for resumes and how candidates present themselves. They dive into the pros and cons of AI in recruiting, highlighting the risks of inflated claims and the need for robust assessment strategies.

Filled with practical advice, this episode provides valuable perspectives for HR professionals navigating the complexities of modern recruitment practices. Tune in to learn effective techniques for vetting candidates and maintaining hiring standards amid rapid AI advancements, empowering you to handle AI in recruitment with confidence.

This episode covers:

• The impact of AI on candidate presentation and resume authenticity
• Strategies for conducting meaningful interviews to combat skills embellishment
• The importance of customized assessments in the recruitment process
• Future considerations for HR in an AI-driven talent acquisition landscape

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The information technology (IT) job market is evolving fast — are you keeping up? In this episode of "Talkin’ Talent," host Sam McCarthy sits down with IT recruiting experts Craig Savarick and Bryant Covelli to explore the key hiring trends shaping 2025. Whether you're looking to hire top tech talent, or advance your own IT career, this episode is packed with must-know insights.

Craig and Bryant break down what it takes to stay competitive amid the surging demand for skilled IT professionals and the shifting dynamics of remote and hybrid work. They also share insider perspectives on the growing role of contract and project-based work, why hiring speed matters more than ever and how IT professionals can stand out in a rapidly evolving job market.

Tune in to discover:

• The biggest hiring challenges and trends in IT for 2025
• How compensation expectations are shifting, and what that means for employers
• The rise of contract and project-based IT work, and when it makes the most sense
• Proven strategies to attract and retain top-tier tech talent

Download the 2025 IT Salary Guide

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