Jeffrey Sumberg, Executive Partner, Gartner

Jeffrey Sumberg is a seasoned executive leader with deep experience helping organisations address their most difficult human capital challenges. 

From a legal role in labour relations and developing US government-wide policy and tools in all areas of human capital, to being a trusted partner for C-suite clients by helping them align people strategies with critical business goals. Throughout his career, Jeffrey has consistently delivered results by aligning people strategy with workforce needs and business priorities.

Jeffrey shares his experiences of culture in highly unionised environments, explains the Human Deal that powers Gartner and underlines how culture never stops.

He joins Culture Makers today from Arlington, Virginia, USA.

Highlights from our conversation include:

The importance of fairness and equity in federal employment [00:09:05] Discussion on the role of the Office of Personnel Management in setting standards for fair treatment of federal workers.

Enhancing organisational culture in federal agencies [00:10:18] Exploration of strategies to attract and retain talent in the federal government, despite limitations in compensation.

The bipartisan importance of a well-functioning government [00:12:19] Reflection on the non-partisan commitment to ensuring the right people with the right skills are in place to serve the American people.

The importance of continuous effort in building and sustaining culture [00:17:24] Jeffrey discusses the process of identifying and implementing behaviors to shape culture, emphasizing the need for ongoing reinforcement and accountability.

The perpetual nature of culture and the need for continual intentionality [00:18:32] Colin and Jeffrey highlight the importance of consistently being intentional about culture, as it is an ongoing and ever-present aspect of an organisation.

The impact of culture on employee and client experiences [00:21:15] Jeffrey explains the correlation between a positive employee experience and the ability to provide excellent client services, emphasizing the value of deep connections, flexibility, personal growth, well-being, and a shared sense of purpose in enhancing the employee experience.