For a leader whose philosophy is deeply rooted in the belief that leadership is about supporting the team rather than sitting above it, Adam Mesh, Chief People Officer at Equiniti (EQ), offers a refreshing perspective. While organisations are often seen as pyramids with leaders at the top, he views leadership differently, by flipping that pyramid upside down.
For Mesh leadership is about supporting people: removing obstacles, enabling teams to take ownership, helping individuals grow in their careers, and creating an environment where they can do their best work.
Leading a global people function, his focus remains on empowering teams, encouraging collaboration and ideas, and ensuring employees feel motivated to contribute meaningfully. He believes that when leaders create the right conditions for success, both people and the business thrive together.
Fittingly, as organisations around the world mark International HR Day 2026, Mesh’s insights arrive at a moment when the role of HR leadership is becoming more strategic, human-centric, and business-critical than ever before.
In this exclusive conversation, Mesh shares insights on how leadership, talent strategy, and employee experience are being reshaped in a rapidly evolving world of work. From the growing influence of AI and people analytics to the enduring importance of culture, inclusion, and human connection, the discussion offers a grounded perspective on what it takes to build resilient, future-ready organisations.