Navigating a Values-Led HR Career: From Retail to Waterways

HR director Karen Seth shares insights from her multi-sector career journey, highlighting how a commitment to service and values has shaped her path.

A Serendipitous Start

Karen Seth's career took an unexpected turn when she discovered the Canal and River Trust while looking for a volunteering job. Little did she know, she would later become the HR director for this charity, responsible for 2,000 miles of waterways across England and Wales. The Trust's complexity appealed to her—it's not a typical charity, with roles ranging from construction workers to engineers, and it operates commercially by selling water and managing investments.

Early Career and Passion for HR

Seth's journey began with an interest in accountancy and HR, but a part-time hospitality job during her A levels sparked a love for training. This led her to a training manager role in a central London hotel, where she embraced the challenge, saying, "I thought: Oh, my God; I don’t really know what I’m doing! But I can learn, create networks, and find out." This mindset propelled her forward, taking opportunities as they came.

Key Career Moves

A significant opportunity arose with Sainsbury’s, where Seth was drawn to the retailer's values. Despite losing her voice on the day of her second interview, she persevered and landed the role, spending 17 years there and building lifelong bonds. Later, she moved to The Co-operative Group, where she honed her skills in change and transformation over seven years.

Overcoming Challenges

Seth faced tough situations, such as negotiating collective bargaining at Sainsbury's and handling union disputes at the Co-op. She emphasizes learning from these experiences, supported by specialist advice and training, which strengthened her relationships and insights.

Drivers of Success

Seth attributes her success to a desire to help others, commercial acumen, and a genuine love for her work. She notes, "I naturally like to help people, but I’m also commercial." Her strategic focus and interest in employment law and industrial relations have kept her engaged in HR.

Career Highlights and Aspirations

For Seth, highlights include the people who have supported her, her chartered CIPD status, and her achievements at the Trust, such as building a people strategy from scratch. Looking ahead, she is open to consultancy or non-executive roles, aiming for a slower pace while continuing to add value.

Current Role and Future Outlook

At the Canal and River Trust, Seth is excited about aligning people priorities with the new chief executive's vision. She is confident in navigating upcoming challenges, drawing on her experience from joining businesses at their lowest points. Seth is well-equipped to steer change, driven by a values-led approach to success.

Five Things I Can't Live Without

1. Yoga: I practice flow yoga, but I love all kinds.
2. Books: I love gathering knowledge.
3. My two Labradors: They’re brilliant!
4. Water: I’m used to the sea, being from Northumberland.
5. Family: My mum, my sister, and my partner.