4.07 How to be a more strategic HR leader - with Indy Lachhar, CPO

Tired of being told to “be more strategic” with no real guidance on what that means? Chief People Officer Indy Lachhar shares her real-world perspective on how HR can think and act more strategically without relying on textbook definitions or theory. She reframes strategy as a daily mindset, focusing on staying aligned to the real goals of the business, building trusted relationships, and focusing on the few things that really drive value. This last one involves getting better at saying no.We explore how asking better questions, not jumping to solutions, and holding firm on what matters helps HR shift from task delivery to value creation. Indy also shares her weekly reflection habit, how she approaches saying no, and the shift from delivering initiatives to shaping impact.If you're in HR and want to feel more confident and focused and operate with more impact,  this conversation covers helpful tips and techniques to ask great questions and adopt a strategic mindset.Key Points DiscussedStrategy starts with aligning people work to business outcomes, not building plansHR must listen well, and ask better questions to uncover what really mattersRelationships are the foundation of strategic influenceFocus on 3–5 things that truly drive value, not long to-do listsHR's unique visibility gives it powerful insight into what drives performanceStrategic clarity often means saying no to the wrong workReflection helps you show up with purpose and intention each weekKey TakeawayBeing strategic in HR isn’t about theory or a one-off activity. It’s a daily habit about aligning with business goals, listening with intent, asking better questions, and choosing what truly creates value.If you liked this, you might like these related episodes:S4 01 - What does it mean to think strategically at work? S1 10 - How to align your strategy to business goalsS1 07 -Taking HR from Reactive to Transformational About Indy LachharIndy Lachhar is Chief People Officer at Robert Walters Group, where she leads the global people strategy and a team of 140 HR professionals across 30 markets. With a strong track record in leadership development, organisational culture and talent transformation, she champions a people-first approach grounded in authenticity, care and entrepreneurial spirit.Indy has held senior HR roles across the Group, shaping initiatives that embed inclusive leadership, psychological safety and long-term talent development. She brings a strategic lens to the CPO role, aligning people practices with business growth while elevating HR as a critical partner in driving organisational success.Thank you for tuning into this episode of The Strategic Leader podcast. If you enjoyed the show, please give is 5 stars! It will help others find the show.Check out our previous episodes and remember to subscribe so you don’t miss our future shows.If you have any questions or want to discuss anything, we’d love to hear from you:www.gemmabullivant.co.uk (for Gemma)www.wearegoodthinking.co.uk (for Fi)