From CHRO to University of Chicago Professor with Tracy Layney episode artwork

EPISODE · Oct 21, 2025 · 27 MIN

From CHRO to University of Chicago Professor with Tracy Layney

from Talk Talent To Me

Tracy Layney has led HR at iconic brands like Levi's, Old Navy, and Shutterfly, so it's no surprise she's now training the next generation of CHROs at the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business. Tracy joins Rob to unpack why HR's role is more complex (and powerful) than ever before, and how her coursework is helping senior people leaders develop the human capital strategies their companies desperately need. She breaks down the people-side of big moves—like Levi's exit from Russia—and shares the three-pillar framework she teaches for linking business goals to people strategy. Plus: why HR still doesn't speak the language of business, and how she's helping to change that   📌 Key Takeaways Tracy's journey from org strategy consulting to CHRO to professor Why executive HR education is finally getting the attention it deserves A behind-the-scenes look at Booth's program for future CHROs The people-side of major business decisions, like Levi's exit from Russia Why the CHRO role is more complex, and more influential, than ever The three-pillar framework for building a scalable human capital strategy How to tailor people strategy without reinventing the wheel Why HR still doesn't speak the language of business, and how to change it The disconnect between strategic frameworks and HR's day-to-day execution Tracy's take on lifelong learning, fractional work, and what's next in her career   🔗 Links Tracey Layney on LinkedIn LHH Recruitment Solutions  A Beautiful Working World A Soundbeam Studios Production

NOW PLAYING

From CHRO to University of Chicago Professor with Tracy Layney

0:00 27:33

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

No similar episodes found.

No similar podcasts found.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Talk Talent To Me?

This episode is 27 minutes long.

When was this Talk Talent To Me episode published?

This episode was published on October 21, 2025.

What is this episode about?

Tracy Layney has led HR at iconic brands like Levi's, Old Navy, and Shutterfly, so it's no surprise she's now training the next generation of CHROs at the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business. Tracy joins Rob to unpack why HR's role is...

Can I download this Talk Talent To Me episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.
URL copied to clipboard!