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"HR, But Make It Cool": A Conversation with Linh Grethe, Founder of HR Collective


In this exclusive interview, we speak with Linh Grethe, CEO & Founder of HR Collective GmbH, about reimagining HR as a dynamic force for workplace transformation, the exciting partnership with FAIR! Barcelona 2025, and her vision for the future of work.


The journey: Creating a new kind of HR Community


Abstract figure meditating with striped shirt, arms in "OK" gesture. Text: "Create People Impact." Welcoming message in German below.
HR Collective

Tell me about the journey to create HR Collective - what gap or opportunity did you see? What makes the HR Collective solutions unique in the work culture and business ecosystem?


HR Collective was built on a simple yet powerful mission: HR, but make it cool.

We saw a gap in the HR world - too often, HR is seen as rigid, transactional, or stuck in outdated frameworks. But we know HR is so much more. It's the driving force behind culture, innovation, and the future of work. We created HR Collective to bring together forward-thinking HR professionals who are ready to redefine the role of HR and make it a true game-changer for businesses and people.

HR Collective isn't just another HR resource, it's a community-powered movement. We empower HR leaders to step into their roles as culture-shapers and business drivers. Here's what sets us apart:

  • HR, but cool - We break the mold of traditional HR, making it dynamic, strategic, and people-focused.

  • Community-Driven - We connect HR professionals to share insights, support each other, and create real impact.

  • Future-Focused – We embrace innovation, agility, and data-driven decisions to build workplaces that thrive.

  • People First – We believe in HR that's human-centric, driving engagement, belonging, and success.

At HR Collective, we're not just changing HR, we're redefining the future of work. And we're doing it together.


Strategic partnerships: FAIR! Barcelona 2025


Looking at our partnership today - what possibilities made you say "this is the right fit"? How do you see both communities benefiting and growing together through this collaboration?


The partnership between HR Collective and FAIR Barcelona 2025 is a natural fit, rooted in our shared commitment to fostering inclusive workplaces. FAIR Barcelona serves as a dynamic platform connecting European policymakers, industry leaders, and workplace inclusion practitioners. This aligns seamlessly with HR Collective's mission to empower HR professionals in building better work futures.


By collaborating, we can enhance the adoption of inclusive recruitment and talent strategies across our networks, ensuring that diversity and equity are at the forefront of workplace transformation. Our partnership allows for the sharing of research-based, expert solutions, providing our communities with enriched content and innovative approaches to workplace inclusion. Together, we can create immersive experiences and curate agendas that resonate with our audiences, fostering a sense of belonging and collective action towards fair work cultures.


By uniting our efforts, HR Collective and FAIR Barcelona 2025 are poised to drive meaningful change, setting a new standard for inclusivity in the workplace.


Note: HR Collective is proud to be an official community partner for FAIR BARCELONA 2025, the premier forum in Europe for Workplace Inclusion. All HR Collective members benefit from a 20% discount on tickets with the code: 20FAIR2025HRC 🎉


HR Collective logo with a stork, wavy lines. Text: FAIR BARCELONA, workplace inclusion conference, "flip the script", May 15, 2025.

Community impact: Meaningful connections


Can you share some transformative moments you've witnessed within the HR Collective community? What kind of connections and relationships have you seen develop that really stand out?


One of the most powerful aspects of HR Collective is how it brings together professionals who are not just focused on policies and processes but truly care about shaping meaningful workplace cultures. I've also seen career-defining relationships develop. People have found mentors, business partners, and even co-founders through HR Collective. It's incredible to witness how shared values and authentic conversations can lead to professional transformations.


Personal journey: People over Policies


Woman in a teal suit sits smiling against a white brick wall. She exudes a confident and relaxed mood.
Linh Grethe

How has the People and Culture community shaped your own professional journey? What drives you to keep building and nurturing initiatives in this space?


Being part of the People and Culture community has been transformative for me because it constantly reinforces the idea that HR isn't just about policies, it's about people. Early in my career, I realised that the strongest organisations aren't just those with the best strategies, but those that truly invest in their people.

What drives me is the potential to create workplaces where individuals feel valued, empowered, and able to bring their whole selves to work. HR Collective provides a platform where we can exchange ideas, challenge outdated systems, and create forward-thinking solutions together. Seeing the ripple effect of these conversations, when someone takes an idea from a webinar session or from our chats and implements real change in their company, is what keeps me motivated.


Future vision: Collaboration and innovation


Where do you see HR Collective's biggest opportunities for impact in the coming years? How might this partnership help realise that vision?


The future of HR is about collaboration, inclusivity, and innovation. HR Collective has the opportunity to shape industry-wide change by fostering deeper peer learning, advocating for progressive workplace policies, and bridging the gap between HR and leadership.

This partnership can help scale our reach, bring in fresh perspectives, and create even more tangible impact, ensuring that HR remains a driving force for positive change.


About Linh Grethe: As CEO and Founder of HR Collective GmbH, Linh is passionate about transforming HR from a traditional function into a dynamic, strategic force for positive workplace change. Her vision of "HR, but make it cool" has resonated with forward-thinking HR professionals across Europe who are joining the movement to redefine the future of work.



 
 
 

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