13th November 2025
4 min read
CIPD 2025: Human-First Workplaces in a Tech-Driven World
Insights from Tanya Corsie and Chantelle Hazell at the CIPD Annual Conference & Exhibition 2024
Tanya Corsie
CEO
Chantelle Hazell
Assoc CIPD | HR Manager
The CIPD Annual Conference & Exhibition 2025 delivered two days of powerful discussion, practical inspiration, and challenging reflections on the future of work. With keynotes, case studies, and expert panels, the event made one thing clear: creating the workplaces of tomorrow means putting people first even in a digital age.
Tanya Corsie (CEO) and Chantelle Hazell Assoc CIPD (HR Manager) represented Iken at Manchester Central, joining people professionals from across the UK to explore everything from AI and automation to inclusive leadership and legal change.
Both Tanya and Chantelle highlighted a recurring theme: technology can support, but not replace, human connection.
Across multiple sessions, speakers championed values-led leadership, diverse talent pipelines, and the need to make wellbeing more than a buzzword. Chantelle was particularly struck by a session on managing stress and burnout in HR:
“Even in a tech company, people still need to come first… It’s not about perks or policies for the sake of it it’s about development, inclusion, and helping people unlock their talent.”
Chantelle Hazell
Assoc CIPD | HR Manager
Keynote Takeaways: Bias, Burnout, and Belonging
Tanya reflected on standout sessions that addressed some of the biggest challenges facing modern HR leaders.
Peter Cheese, CEO of CIPD, opened the event with a clear call to action: to navigate global uncertainty, HR must stay rooted in human value while embracing evolving technology responsibly. His message underscored the essential role HR plays in setting the tone for ethical and people-centred change during complex times.
Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon’s keynote was a passionate rallying cry for greater diversity in STEM. She highlighted the very real bias embedded in many technologies and systems, urging delegates to remember the consequences of exclusion in both design and testing. Dr Imafidon also championed the idea of adding the Arts to STEM: creating STEAM and reminded us that creativity, play, and the ability to fail well are just as vital to innovation as logic.
A compelling case study session led by HETA and Fera Science Ltd focused on the importance of female role models, male allyship, and socio-economic inclusion in driving progress across science and engineering. The speakers reinforced that diversity must be supported by real infrastructure and networks to foster safe spaces for growth and advancement.
Finally, Sabrina Cohen-Hatton’s keynote on resilience and leadership left a lasting impression. Her story of overcoming trauma, navigating a male-dominated profession, and leading with compassion struck a chord with many attendees. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of shared human connection, believing in the potential of training and process, and empowering people to rewrite their own stories.
Inclusion, Policy, and Practical Support
Day 2’s sessions brought further hard-hitting insights, particularly around inclusion and legislative change. A panel discussion on What’s Next for Inclusion emphasised that the drive for diversity and equity should not be scaled back — even in politically and socially complex times. One of the most powerful takeaways was the idea that inclusion must also mean ensuring real-life safety. The panel explored how organisations can support staff during periods of protest, unrest, or rising discrimination whether through vocal allyship, secure transport, or flexible working arrangements.
Another key session examined the upcoming Employment Rights Bill update, offering expert insight into what legal changes may lie ahead. With Day 1 rights and increased tribunal pressures on the horizon, panellists stressed the importance of clear guidance and compassionate, proactive HR policies. For many organisations: particularly SMEs understanding and preparing for these changes will be critical in protecting both people and process.
“It’s the human connection I treasured… Being able to talk in-depth with others, share our experiences, and reflect on what we do well and what we can do better was just as valuable as the conference content itself.”
Tanya Corsie
CEO
What’s Next for Iken?
As Iken continues to grow as a purpose-led, people-first workplace, the lessons from CIPD 2024 will shape ongoing conversations across the team. From inclusive recruitment to wellbeing, from skills development to legal compliance the message is clear: the future of work starts with people.
“This year’s theme reminded us: it’s not about retaining talent, it’s about unlocking it”
Chantelle Hazell
Assoc CIPD | HR Manager
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