Meet the OEB25 Speakers: Kerri O’Neill

We’re delighted to welcome Kerri O’Neill, Chief People Officer at Ipsos UK & Ireland, to the OEB25 keynote stage.
An award-winning executive with two decades of experience in HR, cultural transformation, and organisational effectiveness, Kerri has shaped inclusive, high-performing workplaces at Ofcom, House of Fraser, and Aviva, bringing a strategic people focus to diverse sectors across the globe.
At Ipsos, she champions a human-first approach to leadership – one that places empathy, responsibility and connection at the centre of how organisations adapt to emerging technologies.
Kerri also serves as a Trustee of Oxfam GB and Vice-Chair of Farnham Maltings, and arts and community charity.

What was your first thought about this year’s conference theme “Humanity in the Intelligent Age: Empathy, Responsibility, and the Duty of Care”?

My initial thought was that the theme feels incredibly relevant to today’s rapid technological advancements. The use of AI is such a fascinating world however it’s essential for organisations to use AI and intelligent technologies to strengthen, not weaken, our core human values and connections. As AI, automation, and digital transformation continue to evolve, they significantly impact our well-being, development, and sense of purpose. By thoughtfully integrating these technologies, we can address the challenges and capitalise on opportunities, ensuring a harmonious coexistence of both people and technology in the future.

Moreover, we should focus on amplifying the unique abilities that define us as humans, such as empathy, creativity, and emotional intelligence. By placing these qualities at the heart of our organisations, we can safeguard the human essence amidst technological growth. Additionally, as automation progresses, confronting loneliness through a duty of care becomes imperative. Upholding face-to-face interactions and embodying the ‘human element’ will help us thrive as a society built on social connections. This dual approach ensures we create environments where both technology and human interactions flourish, avoiding the risk of societal disconnect.

If you could look into the year 2045, what do you envision learning will be driven by?

In envisioning the world of learning in 2045, it is clear that the driving force will be the enduring presence of problems that need solutions, even though their exact nature might still be unknown to us. The future of learning will thrive on addressing these challenges, as each one will offer new opportunities for innovation and growth. With AI making knowledge more accessible than ever, the focus will naturally shift towards maintaining the relevancy of skills, which were traditionally rooted in knowledge, experience, and practical application. Experience itself, characterised by our ability to process information and rely on intuition and instincts, will remain an indispensable part of learning. While the core practice of applying knowledge and skills in real-world settings may not change drastically, the means through which we access and apply our learning will evolve with unprecedented advancements in technology.

Which learning technology has recently impressed you?

The learning technology that has truly impressed me is “7Taps.” This innovative tool has been instrumental in delivering a series of microlearning hacks aimed at enhancing AI capability, fostering a sense of community, and instilling pride within our organisation. By encouraging our teams to engage in less than ten minutes of learning each day, we have not only introduced them to effective microlearning techniques but also cultivated a powerful habit of continuous learning.

The accessibility and pacing of 7Taps have been remarkable. The faster we can move and adapt, the more significant impact we can make, and 7Taps facilitates this in such an engaging way.

Although, I feel it’s important to not forget that even our own brain can be viewed as a technology, continually impressing us with its capacity to forge deeper connections. These interactions significantly influence our ideas and perspectives on life, showcasing the profound difference innovative learning technologies can make.

Which book should everyone read?

A book that has left a lasting impression on me, and I believe everyone should read, is Viktor Frankl’s ‘Man’s Search for Meaning.’ This profound work, derived from Frankl’s harrowing experiences as a psychologist who survived a concentration camp, presents powerful insights into finding real meaning and purpose in life. It explores the incredible mental tenacity that helps humans to withstand circumstances engineered to defeat them, highlighting the pivotal concept of inner strength and authentic purpose.

Frankl’s message is both empowering and enduring: discovering your personal meaning in life can lead to profound internal growth and forge a legacy of resilience. I first encountered this book 25 years ago, and since then, it has consistently underpinned every aspect of my leadership development. It sits at the core of deeply transformative thinking about life and human potential.

What was your most significant learning experience?

One of my most profound learning experiences was a solo backpacking trip across Australia. It was my first time truly on my own and this experience pushed me far outside my comfort zone, navigating an unfamiliar environment and relying solely on my own resourcefulness. I honed essential skills like adaptability and problem-solving, and perhaps most importantly, I gained a deep understanding of my own resilience and capacity for growth. 

What really struck me was how nature dominates the landscape. With only 27 million people, compared to the UK’s dense population, it felt as though I was in a world almost untouched by humanity. Australia, with 40% considered undisturbed wilderness and 17% covered in forests, offered well needed time for reflection. Without the distraction of a smartphone, and taking three weeks just to phone home, the experience allowed me to develop a profound understanding of both the external world and my inner self. This journey was a testament to discovering my own resilience and capacity for growth amid challenges and natural beauty.

Which question is asked too rarely when we talk about learning?

I want to include 2 questions here that should be asked before creating, curating, designing, delivering any learning. I think good learning professionals do already ask these but they’re certainly the most important.

Firstly, ‘What is the lasting impact to our business?’  i.e. What is the business outcome we want to see from this learning and how will we measure whether it has been successful in driving that outcome? 

Secondly, we should ask: ‘What is the lasting impact on individuals?’ It’s not about their role or job title, but about truly understanding our end users. We need to ask who this learning is for, what will motivate them to engage, how it will positively impact their performance and what are their frustrations that this will answer? 

Reflecting on my experience, I know that understanding these individual motivations and frustrations ensures that learning is relevant and genuinely enhances their professional lives.

What would be the title of your autobiography?

If I were to write an autobiography, I would title it ‘Mosquito’. This choice is inspired by a powerful quote from the Dalai Lama: ‘If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.’ Growing up in Norfolk, a place that is not widely recognised, this title holds layered meanings. It reflects my desire to have a voice and lead change, despite originating from somewhere relatively unknown. Furthermore, it resonates with my physicality and the idea that even the smallest presence can create a significant impact.

What are you looking forward to the most at this year’s OEB?

I’m most looking forward to immersing myself in discussions with an incredible lineup of speakers and to engage with a global community of learning professionals. This year’s OEB in beautiful Berlin provides the perfect setting to reflect on the topic of ‘Humanity in the Intelligent Age: Empathy, Responsibility, and the Duty of Care.’ The theme resonates deeply with me as it emphasises the importance of balancing Human Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence – a key consideration for all our futures. Reflecting on these interconnected themes in such a collaborative environment promises to be a profoundly enriching experience.

Thank you, Kerri! Kerri O’Neill will be speaking at the OEB25 Friday Plenary “The Responsibility Revolution: How Learning Leaders Shape Tomorrow’s Workplace”.