What's Happening?
Martyn Dicker, the director of people for Unicef UK, discusses his career journey in the charity sector and offers leadership advice. Dicker began his career in recruitment, focusing on hiring architects and surveyors in the private sector. His interest in HR led him to transition into in-house recruitment and eventually to a generalist HR position at a housing association. This role, with its strong social purpose, served as a stepping stone into the charity sector, culminating in a position at the British Red Cross. Dicker highlights the unique aspects of working in charities, such as the sense of purpose, passion for the cause, and the challenge of limited resources. He emphasizes the importance of creativity in delivering results without relying on expensive technology or consultants. Dicker is particularly proud of his work in equity, diversity, and inclusion at Unicef, noting significant improvements in representation and gender pay gap reduction.
Why It's Important?
Dicker's insights underscore the critical role of HR professionals in driving meaningful change within organizations, particularly in the charity sector. His emphasis on equity, diversity, and inclusion reflects broader societal shifts towards more inclusive workplaces. The charity sector's focus on social purpose and values-driven work can inspire other industries to prioritize ethical practices and community impact. Dicker's leadership tips, such as embracing challenges and maintaining humble confidence, are applicable across various sectors, encouraging professionals to seek growth and make a significant impact. His experiences highlight the potential for HR roles to shape organizational culture and performance, offering valuable lessons for those in similar positions.
What's Next?
Dicker's ongoing work at Unicef UK suggests continued efforts to enhance diversity and inclusion within the organization. His leadership approach may influence other HR professionals in the charity sector to adopt similar strategies, potentially leading to broader changes in how charities operate and prioritize their values. As the sector evolves, there may be increased collaboration between charities and other industries to share best practices and drive social change. Dicker's focus on creativity and resourcefulness in the face of limited budgets could inspire innovative solutions to common challenges faced by not-for-profit organizations.
Beyond the Headlines
The charity sector's emphasis on values and social purpose offers a model for other industries seeking to balance profit with ethical considerations. Dicker's career path illustrates the potential for non-traditional routes into HR, encouraging professionals to explore diverse opportunities and leverage their unique skills. The sector's challenges, such as limited resources, highlight the importance of adaptability and innovation, which are increasingly relevant in today's rapidly changing business environment. Dicker's work in diversity and inclusion reflects broader societal movements towards equity, suggesting potential long-term shifts in workplace culture and practices.
