Unveiling HR Transformation: Human Leadership with Measurable Impact

In today’s complex and fast-evolving business environment, HR transformation is no longer about policies or processes alone. It is about driving real business outcomes while staying deeply human.

This powerful idea takes center stage in the latest episode of Rolling Stories, where hosts Agent Tan and Manu Ketan speak with Dr. Nora Manaf, Former Group Chief Human Capital Officer at Maybank.

Drawing from decades of leadership experience, Dr. Nora shares how HR can move beyond support functions to become a true driver of transformation, growth, and value creation—without losing sight of people.

From Chartered Accountant to Transformational HR Leader

Dr. Nora began by reflecting on her unconventional journey—from a chartered accountant to one of the most respected HR leaders in the region. This transition shaped her belief that HR must be grounded in business realities, not just people practices.

Being close to the business allowed her to:

• Understand financial and operational levers
• Make data-backed people decisions
• Align HR priorities with enterprise goals

Her journey reinforces a critical insight: HR credibility is built when leaders understand both people and business outcomes.

Transforming Maybank: Strategy with Accountability

One of the defining moments of the conversation was Dr. Nora’s experience leading large-scale HR transformation at Maybank. Under her leadership, HR initiatives were directly linked to business performance—including doubling revenue per staff while maintaining high employee engagement.

Rather than launching isolated HR programs, the focus was on:

• Clear ownership and execution
• Measurable outcomes
• Strong alignment with leadership

This approach ensured that transformation was not theoretical, but visible, practical, and impactful.

Being Humane While Driving Hard Outcomes

A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the balance between empathy and performance. Dr. Nora emphasized that being humane does not mean being soft on results.

In fact, sustainable business success depends on:

• Trust and transparency
• Respect for individual potential
• Courage to make tough decisions

When people feel valued and included, they contribute more meaningfully—creating a win-win for both employees and the organization.

Data, Design, and Courage in HR Leadership

Effective HR transformation requires more than intent—it demands design and courage. Dr. Nora highlighted how data-driven insights helped Maybank move away from assumptions toward informed action.

Key enablers included:

• Using workforce data to guide decisions
• Designing HR solutions around real employee needs
• Acting decisively, even amid uncertainty

Transformation accelerates when HR leaders are willing to prototype, test, and iterate, rather than wait for perfect answers.

The Future of Work: Skills, AI, and New Possibilities

The conversation also explored the future of work, particularly the evolving role of skills and AI. Dr. Nora shared innovative ideas such as:

• Internal skills marketplaces
• Monetizing employee capabilities
• Enabling responsible moonlighting

These initiatives empowered employees—from younger professionals to seniors—to stay relevant, contribute meaningfully, and continue learning.

AI, she noted, should be seen as an enabler, helping HR and leaders focus on higher-value, strategic work rather than routine tasks.

Trust, Inclusion, and Multi-Generational Impact

One of the most inspiring parts of the episode was the emphasis on inclusion across age groups. From 32-year-olds to 70-year-olds, Dr. Nora highlighted how organizations can unlock value by building trust and recognizing diverse capabilities.

When employees feel trusted, they are more confident to innovate, share ideas, and take ownership—key ingredients for transformation.

Final Thoughts

This episode of Rolling Stories offers a compelling perspective on what modern HR leadership truly means. Dr. Nora Manaf’s insights make one thing clear: HR transformation succeeds when business rigor meets human empathy.

For HR leaders and CXOs navigating change, the message is simple yet powerful:

• Stay close to the business
• Use data with intent
• Act with courage
• Never lose sight of people

Watch the full episode of Rolling Stories to gain deeper insights into HR transformation, leadership, and the future of work

Recent Podcast

June 24, 2025