The art of the pivot
Redefining Career Paths in a Changing World
With Cecily Motley – Co-founder, HR Harriet
In a world where change is constant and career paths are rarely linear, the ability to pivot—with purpose, courage, and clarity—is becoming one of the most powerful leadership skills.
At this edition of Women in Power, we explored the art of the pivot with Cecily Motley, second-time entrepreneur and founder of VC-backed HR Harriet, who has successfully transitioned from consumer goods into the world of AI.
Through a candid fireside chat, we explored what it really means to redefine career paths in a changing world — from bold leaps to quieter pivots — and how adaptability, curiosity, and courage continue to shape the journeys of female leaders. From identifying when it’s time to change course to embracing the uncertainty that comes with reinvention, this conversation will offered real-world insights and inspiration for anyone navigating change.
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A unique opportunity for women
As organisations — and careers — evolve faster than ever due to global, economic, and technological shifts (hello, AI!), diversity of thought and experience is vital.
Women — with our adaptive, non-linear career paths — are uniquely positioned to lead through this upheaval. The key is to be able to navigate change, rewrite career narratives, and stay resilient in the face of uncertainty.
💡 Key Takeaways
- Unconventional CV? Use an unconventional route – network intentionally
- Don’t wait for permission to rewrite your story — own it, reframe and practice it
- Lateral doesn’t mean lesser — progression can look like breadth
- Be kind to yourself — no two pivots look the same
Is pivoting the new normal?
As leaders, many of us are feeling the impact of extraordinary change — from global uncertainty to the transformational force of AI. What came through clearly at the event is this: pivoting is no longer the exception. It’s the reality:
- 85% of the jobs that will exist in 2030 haven’t been invented yet, highlighting the importance of adaptability (Future of Jobs 2025 Report by WEF)
- Resilience, flexibility, and agility are among the top skills required for the future workforce (Future of Jobs 2025 Report by WEF)
- Nearly 9 out of 10 (87%) people under the age of 25 plan to reconsider their current job situation and potentially change their career path in 2022. Source: Aviva
- A combination of mid-career stagnation and financial stability leads most people to make a major career change at the average age of 39 years old. Source: CNBC
About Cecily Motley, Co-founder of HR Harriet
Cecily Motley is a dynamic second-time entrepreneur and the Co-Founder of HR Harriet, an innovative AI-powered HR automation tool transforming the way HR teams work and enhancing overall company productivity
Previously, Cecily founded VC-backed jewellery brand Motley London, leading the business from startup to market success. Her transition from consumer-focused entrepreneurship to the tech and AI space reflects her belief that adaptability and continual learning are key to success in today’s ever-evolving business landscape.
With a passion for empowering people teams and improving workplace experiences, Cecily champions the idea that there’s no silver bullet—success comes from testing, learning, and refining strategies in response to real-world challenges.
With her unwavering dedication to leveraging technology to streamline HR operations and elevate workplace experiences, Cecily is driving impactful change in the realm of HR management.
In her own words:
“People are everything. There’s no silver bullet—test, learn, and test again.”
Introduction by Melissa Bruno
Melissa Bruno is a lead Partner within BDO’s People Advisory Services team with over 20 years’ experience in People, Talent and HR Strategy. She is passionate about designing effective organisations, developing leaders, people and teams, assessing people risk and transforming functions. Melissa starts from advising on what is impacting businesses today and anticipating what will in the future enabling organisations to focus on what matters and to prepare effectively.
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