The Human Resources industry is transforming significantly as technology reshapes traditional processes. With the integration of artificial intelligence, data analytics, and automation, HR is no longer just about recruitment and employee management but has evolved into a strategic function that drives business growth. Companies now leverage AI-powered tools for talent acquisition, performance tracking, and workforce planning, allowing HR professionals to focus on leadership development, employee experience, and workplace culture. In this new era, adaptability and innovation are key, as organizations strive to create dynamic, inclusive, and tech-enabled work environments that align with the ever-changing needs of the global workforce. Larissa Murmann is a forward-thinking HR leader who has embraced the workplace’s digital transformation. With extensive experience in human resources, leadership development, and organizational design, she has consistently pushed boundaries to integrate technology into HR strategies. Holding certifications from MIT, LSE, and Roffey Park Institute, she has dedicated herself to understanding the role of AI in shaping the future of work. Through her work at Unilever International and her initiative, Highest Frequency, she drives cultural and leadership transformation, helping businesses stay ahead in an evolving digital landscape. Her vision is to create workplaces that not only adapt to technological advancements but also enhance human potential through innovation and strategic change.

Driving Digital Transformation in HR: Larissa Murmann’s Vision at Unilever

Larissa, the Digital Chief HR Officer at Unilever International, is at the forefront of integrating technology into human resources. With over 15 years of experience in the field, she combines her expertise in digital transformation, business partnering, organization design, and talent management to drive business growth. Having worked across multiple countries, including Singapore, Switzerland, the US, Argentina, Spain, and Mexico, she brings a global perspective to HR leadership. Her passion for digital innovation is reflected in her continuous learning, including a recent certification from MIT on AI implications for business strategy. She co-leads Unilever International’s digital transformation strategy alongside the Chief Technology Officer, shaping the future of HR by leveraging technology to create agile and high-performing organizations.

At the core of her work is a drive to develop businesses that are resilient in the face of change. She believes in exploring unconventional solutions and challenging traditional models to prepare organizations for the evolving workplace. Her strategic mindset and openness to new challenges enable her to implement initiatives that foster both adaptability and innovation. Additionally, she just started a programme called Chief Data, Analytics, and AI Officer with NUS. Through her role at Unilever, Larissa is dedicated to building a culture that is high-performance, highly digital, and deeply people-focused. By embracing the complexities of an ever-changing world, she ensures that HR remains a key driver of sustainable business transformation.

The Power of Transformation: Larissa Murmann’s Approach to Leadership

Larissa believes that the Growth mindset, clear objectives, openness to Leadershift, and ability to Delight is the GOLD formula to driving meaningful change. As a leader, she focuses on transformation, encouraging those around her to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. To her, setbacks are not failures but moments to learn, adapt, and move forward with even greater determination. With a strong growth mindset, Larissa views every challenge as a chance to improve. Whether facing complex problems or navigating difficult transitions, she believes in the power of continuous learning. Her approach is deeply rooted in the idea that transformation is possible in any environment. She takes pride in her ability to bring positive change to teams, organizations, and leaders, no matter the circumstances.

Guided by strong values and ethics, she prioritizes integrity in all aspects of her work. Hierarchies do not intimidate her, and she is unafraid to speak up when needed. She expects the same level of commitment and high standards from her team as she does from herself, fostering an environment where people can grow and push their limits. Larissa is also driven by action. She does not believe in waiting too long when transformation is needed. Instead, she takes a proactive approach, ensuring that change happens with purpose and speed. Her leadership style is defined by this dynamic mindset—one that values resilience, integrity, and the relentless pursuit of progress.

Rising from Adversity: Larissa Murmann’s Journey of Growth and Leadership

Larissa’s career has been shaped not just by success but by moments of deep personal and professional challenge. At one point, she found herself in a state of uncertainty—without a clear job role, title, or direction. The experience left her questioning her identity and purpose, triggering a period of anxiety unlike anything she had faced before. At the same time, she endured personal losses, including the end of a relationship and health struggles. Hitting rock bottom led her to look inward. She turned to inner child healing, meditation, and manifestation techniques to regain clarity and rebuild herself from within. What initially seemed like the lowest point of her career ultimately became the foundation for immense personal growth, teaching her resilience and self-awareness in ways she had never expected.

In early 2024, she faced another pivotal moment. A 360-degree feedback report from her team provided tough, unfiltered insights into her leadership style. It was a humbling experience, forcing her to confront uncomfortable truths about herself. As the head of HR, admitting vulnerability to her senior leadership team was daunting, but she chose to be open about her journey. She acknowledged that, like them, she was still learning—not only how to lead others but also how to lead herself. Determined to improve, she sought coaching and worked closely with her team to create a more effective and supportive leadership environment. By the end of the year, those efforts paid off. Employee engagement within her business unit reached its highest levels, a testament to the power of growth, self-reflection, and the willingness to evolve. Larissa’s journey is a reminder that even the most challenging periods can become the catalysts for lasting transformation.

Words of Wisdom: Advice from Larissa Murmann

In a rapidly changing world, Larissa encourages professionals to embrace transformation with a growth mindset. She firmly believes that learning never stops, especially in an era where AI, automation, and digitalization are redefining traditional roles. To stay relevant, individuals must take charge of their development, constantly reskilling and upskilling to adapt to new challenges. Rather than seeing technology as a threat, she suggests viewing it as a tool to enhance human potential and create more meaningful work. Resilience, according to Larissa, is one of the most critical attributes for success. Setbacks are inevitable, but she emphasizes that what truly defines a person is how they rise after a fall. Difficult moments—whether in a career or personal life—offer the greatest growth opportunities. Facing uncertainty head-on, rather than resisting it, allows individuals to build strength and adaptability.

As a leader, she believes in the power of authenticity and self-reflection. She has experienced firsthand how important it is to acknowledge weaknesses, seek feedback, and continuously evolve. True leadership is not about having all the answers but about creating environments where people feel empowered to experiment, take risks, and innovate. Open communication and high ethical standards, she says, should be at the core of any team or organization. Finally, Larissa reminds professionals that transformation is not just about business or technology—it is deeply personal. The most significant changes begin from within, by challenging one’s perspectives, stepping out of comfort zone, and redefining success beyond titles and achievements.

Embracing the Future: Larissa Murmann’s Vision for Digital HR Transformation

As the landscape of work shifts with the rise of artificial intelligence, Larissa sees human resources evolving alongside it. With automation and AI reshaping many traditional HR functions, she has embraced transformation not only for organizations but for herself as well. Her commitment to staying ahead of change is reflected in her pursuit of continuous learning, including certifications from MIT, the London School of Economics, and Roffey Park Institute. She has also gained expertise as an Agile Scrum Master, equipping herself with the tools to navigate the future of work.

Understanding the growing impact of AI on business strategy, Larissa took the initiative to reskill, earning a certificate from MIT on AI’s implications for business. Taking this further, she is currently pursuing a Chief Data, Analytics, and AI Officer Program at the National University of Singapore to deepen her expertise in integrating technology with HR. Rather than seeing AI as a threat to traditional roles, she views it as an opportunity to enhance leadership, reshape workplace cultures, and create meaningful transformation. Driven by her purpose of creating “Golden Moments” through transformation, she has extended her impact beyond corporate leadership. Through her venture, Highest Frequency, she helps organizations and leaders navigate digital change, ensuring they remain agile in a fast-evolving world. By combining human insight with technology, Larissa is redefining the role of HR in the digital age, proving that adaptability and vision are key to staying relevant in an era of transformation.