Our Movers and Shakers articles highlight who’s moving up, out or across in the rapidly evolving world of workplace culture, employee health and wellbeing. Here’s a selection of just a few of the many “movers and shakers” that grabbed my attention in June and July 2026…
Peter Cheese
This month we begin by recognising the outstanding contribution of Peter Cheese, who has retired after more than 14 years as CEO of the CIPD, the professional body for HR and people development.
Messages of appreciation and recognition for his leadership quickly filled LinkedIn. Responding to them, Peter wrote: “It has been my huge privilege to be the CEO for these 14 years and I have so many amazing memories!
I look forward to keeping in touch with many of you, while also giving the new CEO, Neil Carberry OBE, the space to take the CIPD forward into the next era of change, in which AI will undoubtedly play a significant part.”
We’re grateful to Peter for the many interviews he has given Make a Difference over the years. They capture the thoughtful, forward-looking perspective that has characterised his leadership, from the future impact of AI to how employers can prepare for the changing world of work.
Karen Sancto
Next up is long-time Make a Difference Leader Karen Sancto. Her new role at Microsoft sees her expand from a regional focus to a global remit, while also moving deeper into benefits at a subject matter level.
Announcing the move on LinkedIn, Karen wrote: “As Global Wellbeing Benefits Manager, I have the honour of managing a global service supporting employees and partners through their family planning journeys, from conception and fertility support, expecting new family members, and from early parenting to raising teenagers. I’m thrilled to pick up the mantle again in championing menopause services at Microsoft. I will also contribute to the already world-class team by bringing an additional international perspective to wellbeing across all non-US programmes.”
Karen is one of the most respected practitioners in the workplace culture, employee health and wellbeing community, so we were delighted to welcome her to the Make a Difference Leaders Podcast. In conversation with Suzy Bashford, she shared practical advice on how employers can get the very best from their wellbeing suppliers – including striking the right balance between established partners and the innovative start-ups continuing to reshape the market.
Sian Briddon
Another Mover and Shaker who caught my eye this month is Sian Briddon, who now holds a very intriguing job title. After more than 11 years at Nationwide Building Society, where she was Senior Leader – People & Culture, Business Services, Chief Operating Office, Sian has joined BT as Senior Manager, Contact Experience & Adoption, People & HR Service.
In her new role, she’ll lead the strategy, experience and adoption of BT Group’s People & HR contact ecosystem, helping colleagues and managers access the right support through simple, intuitive and colleague-centric digital experiences. Her remit spans colleague experience, self-service adoption, service design, behaviour change and continuous improvement.
It’s a fascinating role that reflects how much thought leading employers are now giving to the employee experience behind HR services, not just the services themselves. I’m looking forward to hearing more as Sian settles into the role.
Gethin Nadin
Last, but by no means least, congratulations to Gethin Nadin, who has been appointed Chief Advisory Officer at Benifex. In the newly created executive role, the internationally recognised workplace psychologist, author and thought leader will lead the company’s research and thought leadership agenda, advising its board and executive team while helping shape conversations around the future of employee benefits, wellbeing and workforce strategy. The appointment comes as Benifex continues its global expansion, particularly in the US market.
We’re also delighted that Gethin will be joining us as a speaker at the Make a Difference Leaders AGM on 19 October at the iconic British Library. He joins an exceptional line-up including Dame Carol Black GBE, Andy Haldane CBE, President of the British Chambers of Commerce and former Chief Economist at the Bank of England, Chris van Stolk, Executive Vice President at RAND Europe, Richard Heron, expert advisor and former Vice President Health at BP, Danielle Cairney of WSP, Kate Sowden of WPP, and many more. Click here to find out more and express your interest in attending.
Gethin is a regular contributor to Make a Difference Media, and we’re always pleased to share his thoughtful perspective. One example is this profile interview, in which he explores how employers can overcome common barriers to delivering personalised, flexible wellbeing benefits.
We wish all of our June and July Movers and Shakers the best of luck as this new chapter of their lives begins.
