Puma’s CHRO on DE&I, the evolution of the HR function, and how to build a Gen Z–friendly organizational culture

In this episode of the Heidrick & Struggles Leadership Podcast, Heidrick & Struggles’ Claudia Schneider speaks to Dietmar Knoess, the CHRO at Puma. Knoess discusses how the HR function has moved into the boardroom, what challenges the function is facing looking into the next decade, and how he promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion both within and outside Puma. He also discusses how he is building an organizational culture that is attractive to Gen Z workers and shares his advice for future HR leaders. 

Some key questions answered in this podcast include:

• (11:12) What, in your opinion, are the biggest changes the HR function has undergone over the past decade?
• (4:38) What is Puma doing to ensure that DE&I stays at the top of the agenda? What does the future of DE&I look like at Puma?
• (6:33) You mentioned that 54% of your workforce doesn't have a German passport. With that must come complexity. Why do you think this shift in the future workforce is important? 
• (9:41) The majority of your workforce is Gen Z. What is your secret sauce? Why are you so much more advanced than other competitors?
• (12:31) You come with over three decades of experience both in the consumer space and in leading HR functions. What would be your advice for leaders of the future?

About the interviewer

Claudia Schneider (cschneider@heidrick.com) is a principal in Heidrick & Struggles’ Munich office and a member of the Global Industrial and Financial Officers practices.