Lieke Wolfraad, movement scientist, has translated her passion for enhancing human performance and well-being into tangible business successes. At Accenture, she pioneered as an HR advisor the award-winning Fit@Work program in 2009, which was implemented by the company throughout Europe and is now integrated in the Accenture Global Talent Strategy. Runner up and youngest contestant in ‘Health Manager of the Year Awards 2013’ in the Netherlands. After eight years with Accenture, she transitioned into an entrepreneurial role at a training agency before co-founding Onewave with Stijn.
We are delighted that Lieke will be speaking in Amsterdam this May as part of our Wellbeing at Work Summit Europe.
We caught up with her to find out how she’s feeling in the run up to the summit.
Hi Lieke, we are thrilled you will be speaking at our Wellbeing at Work Summit Europe in May. Our first and most important question is, how are you doing today?
Don’t know yet but I think: Little bit excited to talk with so many Senior HR leaders all together! most of the time I speak to them in one-on-one meetings within organisations and I see a lot of overlap in the cross organizational challenges. So, its great to exchanging our knowledge and experiences together.
As a leader based in the region, what are the main challenges you are facing when it comes to employee wellbeing?
As a leader based in the region, one of the primary challenges I encounter regarding employee wellbeing is the increasing incidence of work/life balance issues and high levels of work-related stress experienced by employees. People have become increasingly busier.
Additionally, navigating the differences in wellbeing perspectives across different generations poses another challenge.
And HR faces the ongoing challenge of defining the employer’s role in promoting wellbeing effectively and reaching all employees.
What strategies have you seen developing over the past 6 months, both internally and externally, that is moving the dial on wellbeing in the workplace?
Over the past 6 months, I’ve witnessed a significant shift in the strategies being implemented both internally and externally to enhance wellbeing in the workplace. While previously, efforts mainly revolved around raising awareness through workshops, providing fruit baskets, and offering gym memberships, there has been a notable transition towards more comprehensive programs that is more integrated into organizational culture and work practices. Organizations are increasingly recognizing the importance of integrating wellbeing into every aspect of the workplace experience.
Why is employee wellbeing so important to you personally?
Employee wellbeing is personally important to me because I recognize its dual benefit for both employers and employees. Moreover, I believe that individuals who feel energized and supported are better equipped to make conscious choices for themselves and the world around them.
What are you most looking forward to about the Summit in May?
I’m most looking forward to the Summit in May for the opportunity to share insights and learn from others in the field. Conferences like these provide a platform for exchanging ideas, discussing best practices, and gaining new perspectives on important topics like employee wellbeing.
Tell us, what is your vision for the future workplace, in terms of engagement, health and wellbeing?
A shift towards more comprehensive, personalized, and inclusive approaches to workplace wellbeing, acknowledging the intricate link between employee wellness and business success. Organizations are increasingly recognizing that investing in employee wellbeing is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic one, leading to increased productivity, reduced turnover, and a more positive company culture.
What areas do you think employers should be focused on over the next 12 months?
If I need to choose one, encouraging leaders to prioritize and actively participate in wellbeing initiatives, setting a positive example for the rest of the organization.
How has your organization been leading the way?
Our organization has spearheaded the development of a program that integrates a data-driven approach with a focus on both individual and team needs and adjustments. We’ve observed that our program’s flexibility makes it highly adaptable to leadership and diverse organizational cultures.
Lieke will be speaking in Amsterdam at the Wellbeing at Work Summit Europe which takes place live and in-person in Zurich, Amsterdam and Stockholm. Further details on the Summit can be found here.
