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“By establishing a clear career development framework, you guide and support your people, making them feel valued and inspired to reach their full potential,” says Tan Yee Deng, Chief Human Resources Officer.
Flexibility is not just a luxury — it’s a necessity for adapting to shifting demands and driving innovation. When paired with a robust in-house talent pipeline strategy, it empowers organisations to attract, develop, and retain top-tier talent, cultivating a resilient and future-ready workforce.
PwC Singapore stands as a prime example of this approach, having reaped exceptional recognition at the Singapore HR Excellence Awards 2024. The team's unwavering commitment to building a flexible, high-performance workforce was underscored by the following wins:
- Gold: Excellence in Workforce Flexibility
- Silver: Excellence in In-House Talent Pipeline Strategy
Building on the team's success, HRO sits down with Tan Yee Deng, Chief Human Resources Officer, PwC Singapore, to dive into how the team's forward-thinking initiatives have left a lasting impact on both its employees and the organisational culture.
Q What was the motivation that sparked your passion & business case for pursuing your outstanding people strategy?
We are proud to be recognised for our workplace flexibility and strong internal talent pipeline. At PwC, creating a rewarding experience for our people, with a focus on their wellbeing and professional growth, has always been one of our core priorities.
Flexibility isn’t just a buzzword for us; it’s a fundamental part of enabling work-life harmony, which is integral to the overall wellbeing of our team. When our people are well taken care of, they thrive. A happy and engaged workforce not only delivers high-quality outcomes for our clients and the community but also improves key HR metrics such as staff retention and attractiveness to potential hires.
Our robust in-house talent pipeline is another cornerstone of our success. It allows us to equip and empower high-performing individuals to step into key leadership roles, ensuring we retain knowledge within the firm. For our employees, this means clear and inclusive career development pathways, providing them with the assurance that their growth and advancement are a priority for us.
Q Beyond the recognition, what impact do you hope your feature in the HR Excellence Awards would have on the HR community and manpower landscape?
Beyond the recognition, we hope our feature in the HR Excellence Awards serves as an inspiration for the HR community and the broader manpower landscape to embrace a people-first culture.
By prioritising skills development and workforce flexibility, we aim to demonstrate that investing in talent not only strengthens teams but also contributes to a future-ready workforce for Singapore.
We want to show that productivity is driven by the quality of outcomes, not the hours spent in the office, and that trusted, balanced approaches to work can create thriving, resilient organisations.
Q Could you share some advice you would give to others aspiring to follow in your footsteps?
For those aspiring to lead successful and flexible work environments, it all begins with a foundation of trust and accountability. By setting clear expectations and aligning goals with your team, you create a space where everyone feels empowered. Providing the right tools and resources for remote work, along with maintaining regular communication, ensures that everyone stays motivated and on the same page.
Moreover, fostering an organisational culture that encourages growth is essential. Engage in mentorship and actively seek opportunities to help your team develop their skills. By establishing a clear career development framework, you guide and support your people, making them feel valued and inspired to reach their full potential.
"Finally, focus on a career development approach that highlights the unique strengths and interests of your team members. In our increasingly digital world, it’s important to remain human-led by promoting personal and professional growth through coaching and mentorship. By creating an inclusive and supportive environment, you empower your team to thrive in their career journeys."
Q Let's talk inspiration! Who has been a driving force behind your success?
Success is not mine alone; it’s a testament to the unity and shared values that resonate throughout the PwC community. Personally, my biggest inspiration during my time here has always been the incredible people I work with.
As Chief HR Officer, I have the privilege of witnessing firsthand how our community of solvers embodies the PwC values of ‘Reimagine the Possible’, ‘Make a Difference’, and ‘Working Together’. They dare to be bold, crafting innovative ideas and solutions, and they show remarkable resilience when challenges arise. What truly sets them apart, though, is the genuine care and support they extend to one another.
As a leader, this spirit inspires me to foster a community that is both highly competent and deeply compassionate. Every day, they motivate me to give my best, delivering meaningful outcomes with purpose. I am immensely proud to say that we are truly a community in every sense of the word.
Read more interviews on why organisations have won trophies for their HR practices - head over to our Winning Secrets section!
Photos: Provided
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