The HR+ Project has officially launched with its first transnational project meeting and a national event in Padova, Italy, on 19–20 November 2024. Hosted by the project coordinator, Fòrema, the two-day event brought together seven project partners from across Europe (Italy, Spain, Hungary, Portugal, Belgium) to exchange ideas and lay the foundation for a groundbreaking initiative aimed at modernising the role of HR managers in knowledge-intensive industries.
The HR+ Project seeks to address workforce challenges arising from the twin transition (green and digital transformation) and demographic changes. By developing an innovative transnational training programme, the project will empower HR managers with the skills needed to drive innovation, promote inclusion, and enhance adaptability in rapidly evolving workplaces.
The meeting began with partner introductions, fostering relationships for effective collaboration. A key highlight was the presentation of the Dissemination and Exploitation Strategy (WP4) by EVTA, which outlined the communication framework to ensure the project’s impact reaches diverse audiences across Europe.
Additionally, Veneto Lavoro led an in-depth discussion on the training needs analysis (WP2), an essential part of the project. This analysis will examine the evolving HR manager profile, address skills gaps, and identify best practices through surveys, interviews, and case studies. Scheduled to continue until April 2025, this work package will form the backbone of the project’s training programme.
To ensure quality and accountability, Fòrema concluded the session with an overview of the Quality Assurance Framework (WP1), clarifying the roles, responsibilities, and timelines that will guide the project to success.
The second day featured the project’s first national event, moderated by Roberto Baldo, and began with an opening address by Matteo Sinigaglia, General Director at Fòrema. The event brought together esteemed experts who shared valuable insights.
Tiziano Barone, Director at Veneto Lavoro, highlighted the importance of HR profiles in addressing workforce challenges and ensuring transparent employment practices.
Paolo Gubitta, Professor at the University of Padua, explored how organisations must adapt to the twin transition by developing “fusion skills” such as intelligent interrogation and reciprocal learning.
Elvio Mauri, General Director of Fondimpresa, discussed the European Social Fund and interprofessional funds as key resources for developing HR managers.
Francesca Nadalin from Veneto Lavoro provided data-driven insights into the project’s focus countries, emphasising how a modernised HR profile could unlock new opportunities.
Roberta Fagotto, Chief Human Capital Officer at SIT, examined the transformative impact of AI on the HR profession, while Carlo Vanin, Chief HR & Organisation Officer at Carel Spa, shared practical strategies to enhance workplace motivation and culture.
As the HR+ Project embarks on this exciting journey, it promises to pave the way for a new era of HR management. By addressing the needs of a changing workforce and equipping HR professionals with advanced skills, the project aims to foster sustainable growth and innovation in knowledge-intensive industries.
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