In this episode of HR Insights, we sit down with Friska Wirya , founder of Future Fit and a globally recognised change management thought leader, to unpack what real change leadership looks like in today’s ever-evolving business landscape. With more than a decade of experience transforming some of the world’s most conservative organisations, Friska brings raw honesty, strategic insight, and a touch of humanity to the prominent topic of change. From managing layoffs with empathy to future-proofing leadership in the age of AI, this conversation dives deep into how we lead, adapt, and evolve in complex times. Friska offers practical tools, tough truths, and inspiring ideas for executives navigating transformation and employees grappling with continuous change. Who is our guest? Friska Wirya is a multi-award-winning change management expert, TED speaker, and best-selling author recognised as a top 50 Global Change Leader. She partners with leaders and organisations worldwide to drive impactful transformation. Her books have gained international acclaim, with her latest becoming a #1 bestseller in Indonesia. Friska’s work has been featured in Vogue , The Financial Review , The CEO Magazine , and more. Key timestamps 01:49 – Intro into Friska 05:05 – Downsizing done right: honesty, empathy, and patience 06:55 – Profit vs people: what most companies get wrong 08:00 – Common leadership fails 11:34 – What positive change actually looks like 14:13 – Is change within business perpetual? 15:31 – Cultural contexts: why change feels different across the globe 19:42 – The five roles leaders must play to become change management experts 21:12 – Fear of AI at work 24:10 – Helping leaders embrace AI 29:38 – Effective examples of adapting to change 30:40 – Shifting the boardroom mindset 32:33 – How employees can open themselves to change 35:50 – Advice for CPOs managing change 36:54 – Advice for employees This episode is sponsored by our partners at Cappfinity. Cappfinity believes in a world where skills and potential create opportunity for all. They are global leaders in measuring and developing potential in Talent Acquisition & Talent Management with a focus on skills and strengths. Through the Cappfinity Skills Suite® they provide skills-based Talent Acquisition and Management solutions across all levels and industries. Their Talent Acquisition solutions range from pre-skilling to seamless onboarding - all the while delivering immersive, brand aligned and insightful experiences to their clients and their candidates. Interested in their services? Please reach out to
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