Bob Watson
Job Title
Group HR Director, BUPA
Quote to remember
'The biggest contribution HR can make is to challenge the status quo...and that includes the CEO'
What are your key responsibilities?
I am responsible for all HR policy and strategy matters for the BUPA group.
Previous jobs (both HR and non-HR)?
I trained as a quantity surveyor but then went into HR at an insurance broker. After that I spent 11 years with Citibank, including two HR director positions and as country head of HR.
What attracted you to a career in HR?
My early years in HR were in training and development. I found it very motivating to help people learn and to see them grow. HR also sits at the heart of the company.
Why did you choose BUPA?
It was a high-profile brand that was losing money. I thought it was a wonderful opportunity to be part of a team that could help turn the business around.
What key skills do you need to be successful in your current role?
The ability to influence from a position of trust is critical, being able to resolve conflict and knowing when to seek consensus or drive an issue through.
What do you enjoy most about your current job?
The ability to influence our developing culture and to be the guardian of our values.
What do you enjoy least about your job?
Having to get buy-in from people with opposing views, when I just want to reach the finishing line as fast as possible.
What has been your greatest achievement in work?
There are two the first was integrating a UK company into a US parent when their cultures were at opposite ends of the spectrum. The second is being part of the team that has transformed BUPA into a modern, customer-oriented group.
What is the most important contribution that HR can make to a business?
Challenging the status quo and that includes challenging senior executive colleagues and the CEO and trying to bring an external perspective to internal issues.
If you werent working for BUPA, which company would you most like to work for?
Sainsburys as a teenager I worked there as a Saturday boy and during the holidays. I liked its customer values and ethos.
Which business person, outside BUPA, do you admire most?
Allan Leighton a modern manager who is prepared to challenge ingrained beliefs at the Post Office while embracing a strong sense of corporate social responsibility.