SHE Relatable Leaders Career Insights Spotlight

The SHE Women’s Network Support Heal Empower is all about empowering, supporting and elevating our members, and inspiring future generations of female leaders. Across 2025 we will spotlight the careers journeys of some of our amazing members. Today we hear from Andli Litt - Assoc CIPD

Transforming HR/Recruitment – The journey of Andli Litt, Associate Director

Introduction

I am Andli, currently serving as the Associate Director of Resourcing at NHS Arden & GEM Commissioning Support Unit. My career journey has been a dynamic yet challenging blend of strategic HR leadership and hands-on transformation projects. From my early days in recruitment to leading large-scale resourcing initiatives, my path has been shaped by a commitment to continuous improvement and inclusive practices.

Early Career

My career in HR began with roles in recruitment. Starting as a Consultant at Randstad, I quickly learned the importance of understanding both the market and the needs of the clients, as well as the overall landscape of the employment experience of someone who looks like me. A pivotal decision for me at a young age was to learn that people buy from people and to focus on building strong relationships and networks, which laid the foundation for my future roles.

Pivotal Moments

A significant breakthrough in my career came during my tenure at BMI Healthcare, where I was tasked with implementing a comprehensive resourcing and retention strategy. This role required me to think creatively and develop innovative programs to attract and retain talent. Overcoming obstacles such as high turnover rates and staffing shortages, within one the most challenging sectors there is – Healthcare!

I introduced some key strategies that were successful, but I also very quickly became the victim of aggressive bullying from the HR Director at the time. this was probably one of the worst times of my career, but also the biggest opportunity for growth for me.

I decided to walk away from what has been the best job of my life, I knew this wasn’t a fight that a 5ft British Asian single parent was going to win. The choice was a hard one, and I was walking into the unknown, but I knew I had to do this. Walking away isn’t a weakness, it’s the biggest form of strength. I vowed that I would work hard to become the best leader there can be.

Leadership Lessons

• Embrace Data-Driven Decisions: Leveraging data to inform strategies has been crucial in achieving measurable outcomes. Whether it's workforce planning or diversity hiring, data provides the insights needed to make informed decisions.

• Foster Inclusive Environments: Creating a culture of inclusion is not just about meeting diversity targets; it's about ensuring every team member feels valued and empowered. This approach leads to higher engagement and better performance.

• Adaptability is Key: The ability to adapt to changing circumstances and pivot strategies when necessary is essential. This flexibility has allowed me to navigate complex projects and deliver successful outcomes.

• Resilience: As a British Asian woman, resilience has to be a part of our DNA, there hasn’t been a day in my working life over the last 15 years that I haven’t been treated differently, been mindful to do well but don’t shine, is it right? Absolutely Not, is it essential – Yes if we want to keep our jobs, because there is no such thing as expecting the majority of the leaders of today to have your back – it doesn’t happen.

Advice for Others

For aspiring leaders, my advice is to always stay curious and open to learning and give your team a voice. The landscape is constantly evolving, and staying ahead requires a commitment to everyone’s continuous professional development. you are only as good as the team you look after.

Above all “Be the leader you wish you had“

Closing Thought

Leadership is a journey of growth and self-discovery. Embrace the challenges, learn from failures, and celebrate the successes. Each experience adds to your toolkit, making you a more effective and empathetic leader.

A quote or some advice that you found valuable

"Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge." – Simon Sinek

Editor: Asma Nafees, SHE Women’s Network Support Heal Empower