Unlocking Potential: Liz Almeida’s Blueprint for a Thriving Workforce

Although the HR industry is always changing, true innovators like Liz Almeida, Chief Human Resources Officer at Panasonic Corporation of North America, stand out by challenging conventions and embracing the power of human potential. 

“It’s about creating the right environment where all employees can really feel engaged, feel like they’re in the zone, experiencing the flow, and they’re able to thrive,” Almeida shared with HR Daily Advisor. 

The Mother’s Mandate: No Limits

Almeida’s drive stems from her upbringing. Raised by a single mother, she learned early on that limitations were self-imposed. “She never let me put limits on myself,” Almeida recalls. “She always reminded me that someone else has done it. There’s no reason why you can’t do it—and if nobody else has done it then you’ll be the first. So, there are no excuses.” 

This “no excuses” philosophy fuels her work at Panasonic, where she champions a culture of limitless possibilities. “At Panasonic, we double down on creating the right environment for our employees, leveraging collective wisdom and fostering a culture where everyone can reach their full potential.”

Driven by a passion to ‘unlock potential,’ Almeida’s approach transcends conventional HR practices, creating an environment where employees truly thrive. In this week’s HR Query, we dive into Almeida’s unique approach, exploring how she fosters a culture of engagement, trust, and forward-thinking.

Here’s what she had to say.

What are the key strategies HR professionals should prioritize to enhance employee engagement?

Almeida: First, understand the big picture: What’s impacting engagement, and what’s our role as leaders in shaping the culture? We need to create a sense of agency, a ‘sweet spot’ where people feel truly engaged. Then, focus on specific strategies. We use our annual engagement survey to identify barriers to potential and areas where employees feel blocked. We also prioritize building trust through vulnerability. It’s okay for leaders to admit they don’t have all the answers. This creates psychological safety and drives innovation.

How has Panasonic successfully improved employee experience?

Almeida: We’ve adopted a framework of co-creation. Employees need to feel a sense of agency and be actively involved in shaping their experience. This includes how they work, when they work, and how they learn. We measure success by tracking increases in engagement and enablement scores, which are especially significant given the current trends of low engagement across the workforce.

What emerging HR trends do you believe will have the most immediate impact on employee experience?

Almeida: While AI is a major topic, I believe personalization, particularly in learning, will have the most immediate impact. AI will transform how we learn, enabling scalable coaching and personalized learning experiences. We also need to consider how AI will change the skills required in the workforce and adapt our learning strategies accordingly.

What advice do you have for HR professionals to navigate the rapid changes in technology and the workplace?

Almeida: Embrace change and be forward-thinking. Resisting technological advancements, like AI, risk being left behind. We need to educate ourselves and the next generation on how to use these tools responsibly. Those who can adapt and innovate will be the ones who thrive in the future of work.

What is one key takeaway you would like HR professionals to implement immediately?

Almeida: Lead with vulnerability. It is one of the quickest ways to build trust. Create a safe space where employees feel comfortable to bring their full selves to work.

For more exciting insights from Liz Almeida, be sure to attend SPARK HR 2025 in Lake Buena Vista, FL, April 30–May 2, where she will be speaking. We’ll be diving even deeper into engagement, leadership, and workplace culture with additional speakers from LinkedIn, Chobani, Microsoft, and more. It’s not just another conference—it’s hands-on, interactive, and a chance to connect with people who really get it. Plus, we’re adding some Disney magic, so you know it’s going to be a great experience. We‘ll see you there!

This article is presented in partnership with HR Daily Advisor. HR Query is a Q&A series by HR Daily Advisor that focuses on HR professionals' insights on current HR trends and dives into their personal stories, helping HR peers connect with challenges and opportunities.