In this episode of the HRD Talks podcast, host Nic Elliott interviews Sharon Frost, Global People Director, whose career spans retail, entertainment, education, marketing, and health sciences.
Sharon shares her journey from finance to HR, revealing how she’s led global teams, navigated private equity-backed growth, and doubled headcount during the pandemic - all while keeping people at the heart of business strategy.
She discusses the importance of commercial thinking in HR, drawing on her finance background and cross-sector experience. Sharon explores the value of union engagement, the challenges of working with private equity, and the need for HR to act as a strategic business partner - not just a support function. She also reflects on the evolving role of middle managers, the impact of AI on HR efficiency, and the importance of treating employees like adults to build trust and accountability.
Leadership, performance conversations, and generational expectations are central themes throughout the episode. Sharon explains how HR can empower managers to have meaningful conversations, and why avoiding feedback - positive or negative - creates a culture of silence. She also shares her views on ESG, employee well-being, and the future of HR as a commercially driven, people-focused discipline.
Sharon offers bold, practical advice for HR professionals ready to lead with confidence and commercial clarity.
We hope you enjoy this episode!
Supplier shout-outs: Gallagher
Sharon’s LinkedIn: Sharon Frost | LinkedIn
Nic’s LinkedIn: Nic Elliott | LinkedIn
The HRD Talks is brought to you by Actons. For more information on our podcast please visit our website.
