By Denise Antwi
Human at Heart: Leading Culture Through Digital Transformation
2 minute read
Human at Heart: Leading Culture Through Digital Transformation
3:36
Insights From Nick Holmes, Vice President, Learning & Culture at Avalere Health and Nadine Anderson, People, Culture and Engagement Strategic Lead at Westminster City Council.
It’s one of the biggest questions facing leaders today: how do we embrace digital transformation without losing our human touch? At the recent Employee Engagement Summit, the Organisational Culture stage hosted a truly inspiring session exploring just that – featuring voices from both corporate and public sectors who are walking this line every day.In conversation with moderator Nick Brice, Nick Holmes, Vice President, Learning & Culture at Avalere Health, and Nadine Anderson, People, Culture and Engagement Strategic Lead at Westminster City Council, unpacked the real challenges and opportunities of creating a human-centred culture in an increasingly tech-driven world.
Nick kicked things off with a timely reminder that culture can’t simply be dictated – it must be nurtured from within. He described how dispersed teams are encouraged to form their own “microcultures” built on trust, belonging, and the everyday rituals that bring people together – even if virtually. From swapping family photos in team chats to celebrating small wins, these moments of real connection, Nick explained, form the “trust triangle” that allows relationships to deepen and thrive.
Nadine built on this by emphasising that leadership – not location – is what truly binds an organisation. At Westminster City Council, she’s seen firsthand how clarity of purpose and consistent communication turn physical distance into shared strength. Simple rituals, such as live weekly updates from the Chief Executive, have helped sustain unity and energy across teams spread far and wide.
Nick Brice reflected on how, during the early stages of the pandemic, engagement surged thanks to intentional and empathetic communication from leaders. The challenge now, he noted, is maintaining that same level of emotional presence in a hybrid world where “camera on” doesn’t always mean “fully present”.
When the conversation turned to technology, both speakers agreed: the shiny potential of AI is exciting – but it must serve humans, not the other way around. As Nick Holmes put it, digital tools should enhance connection, validation, and joy at work – fundamental human needs that remain as vital today as ever. Nadine shared how Westminster actively guards against digital fatigue, introducing 50-minute meeting slots, walking catch-ups, and meeting-free blocks to recharge minds and promote wellbeing.
The session closed on a hopeful note. From “wellbeing pioneers” to impromptu celebrations, both leaders reinforced that joy, boundaries, and social connection are non-negotiables in the modern workplace. With thoughtful leadership and deliberate design, digital transformation and human connection can absolutely coexist – and even strengthen one another.
For a deeper dive into these ideas, tune in to the Employee Engagement Summit podcast to hear the full conversation with Nick Holmes, Nadine Anderson, and Nick Brice. They share practical strategies and honest reflections on how leaders can balance digital transformation with a culture that keeps people at the centre. It’s a thoughtful listen for anyone focused on making work more connected, purposeful, and sustainable.
To register your interest for the 2026 Engage Employee Summit click here: https://www.engageemployee.com/engage-employee-summit-registration
