Wonolo
Round four of our series of admirable HR professionals introduces us to the HR chief at Nestle Purina, the leader in American pet nourishment. The man in charge of herding all those cats and dogs, and the owners making the magic happen, is Steve Degnan, CHRO, Nestlé Purina PetCare North America. Steve has been at Nestle for over 25 years, building experience in production, logistics, and industrial engineering before landing in the HR top spot. Here we get some knowledge sharing on how Steve views HR and its role in the larger organization.
Be on the lookout for more profiles of HR Heroes, and if you have someone that you think would be a great fit for this series, tweet your nomination to us using the #hrhero hashtag.
I’m most proud of…
Being part of a proven, successful, winning team that takes nothing for granted.
I feel happiest when…
I’m able to help an individual, team or group solve or work through a difficult problem.
I started working in HR because…
I was recruited into HR by a highly respected HR Leader who became a friend and mentor.
It drives me nuts when…
the same issue keeps coming up and hasn’t been resolved.
HR is…
Algebra, Calculus, Philosophy, Psychology, Plumbing, and Construction all applied to the human condition at work.
I always start my day with…
Nespresso (the best coffee on earth) and quiet time early in the morning clearing my inbox.
I think the staffing industry is…
being disrupted by Linkedin, Glassdoor and other platforms that make talent easier to find, and companies easier to assess.
The next great innovation in HR is…
I hope it’s the realization that technology must be simple and cannot solve the most fundamental people issues; and it should never just transfer admin tasks to line managers.
My go-to interview question is…
Tell me why you left each successive job or role on your resume. What were the reasons – both positive and negative.
What is the biggest misconception people have about you…
That I’m a typical uptight HR person. I am actually pretty fun. Don’t tell anyone.
What does “hustle” mean to you…
Intensity. I believe you can have plenty of balance in your life if you just make the most of the time you dedicate to your career. While you are at work – go at it like you are all in; scrutinize how every moment is spent. Happen to life – don’t let life happen to you.
Firing someone is…
(most of the time) a result of flawed decisions and feedback never given and always regretful. Always.
We can “sexify” HR by…
putting people in HR that are respected and reputable, can tell the truth when its uncomfortable, and have a great sense of humor.
One trait I look for in a good employee is…
if I have to pick one, I think its integrity.
My favorite app is…
Whatsapp, but there are lots of nonsense apps I use for fun – a current fave is ‘Yo Shirt’…..
The superhero I most relate to is…
My parents raised 7 kids on a modest income and they all went to college. They are beyond super heroes. I also like MacGyver – he could figure stuff out!
What is one thing I haven’t asked you that I should know…
I believe every person who has enjoyed success has an obligation to help others; be a person for others; to serve. “to whom much is given, much is required”
