Bridging Strategy and Humanity: Nurul’s Journey through HR Thought Leadership
As an HR manager in Singapore’s public service sector, Nurul has always placed people at the heart of her work, supporting colleagues and nurturing new talent across diverse backgrounds. Her passion for helping others grow has been the cornerstone of her career. Yet, as the world of work rapidly evolves with digital transformation and AI tools, Nurul recognised the need to deepen her strategic acumen and better integrate the human element into HR leadership.
This desire led her to enrol in the FlexiMasters in HR Thought Leadership programme at NTU’s Nanyang Business School. Her decision has since transformed her professional outlook and capabilities, enabling her to lead with greater clarity and confidence – balancing innovation and empathy in shaping the workforce of tomorrow.
A Flexible Pathway to Strategic HR Mastery
Balancing a full-time job, personal commitments, and part-time study was no easy feat for Nurul. “The past year was hectic,” she recalls. “Waking up on Saturday mornings for full-day classes, juggling assignments, and managing work projects – it was challenging but incredibly rewarding.” The FlexiMasters programme’s modular design and once-a-week classes provided the flexibility she needed to pursue advanced learning without putting a pause to her career.
What left the strongest impression on Nurul was the programme’s blend of practical content and discussion-based approach. “The professors brought valuable industry insights, and the case studies helped me understand the strategic thinking behind managing complex business and HR decisions,” she says. “I also learned a lot from my classmates, who are experienced HR professionals. Their real-world questions and experiences opened my mind to new perspectives.”
From Operational HR to Strategic Thought Leadership
Prior to the programme, Nurul’s experience in HR was largely operational and administrative, where she focused on shared services and community engagement. While meaningful, her role was rooted in the day-to-day process. Her journey in the FlexiMasters programme has broadened her perspective, helping her to see HR not just as a support function, but as a strategic partner in shaping organisational culture and future-proofing talent.
“My biggest takeaway was learning to think more strategically about HR, not just managing processes but shaping culture and asking the tough, big questions,” Nurul explains. “For example, when implementing policies, I now think about the long-term impact, potential repercussions and contingency plans. This strategic mindset has transformed the way I approach my work.”
The module on Strategic Management has particularly resonated with her. “It allowed me to dive deeper into why businesses apply certain frameworks and how to align HR initiatives with organisational goals,” she shares. Nurul applied these insights directly at work, streamlining recruitment and onboarding processes during a major HR system migration at her previous organisation. “I mirrored what I learned to improve workflows, and the changes are still in use today.”
Championing the Human Element in an AI-Driven World
As Nurul looks ahead, she aspires to take on senior HR leadership roles where she can shape people strategies that are both agile and deeply human. “In this era of AI and rapid technological change, there’s a real risk of losing the human essence in HR,” she reflects. “HR is no longer just transactional; it’s about building an inclusive culture and delivering an employee value proposition that truly resonates.”
Her vision is clear; to help organisations harness the power of technology while preserving empathy and inclusiveness. “The FlexiMasters programme has equipped me with the business, digital, and financial acumen to contribute meaningfully at the leadership level,” Nurul says. “It’s about bridging strategy and humanity.”
A Community of Lifelong Learners
Nurul also values the strong sense of community fostered by the programme. “I didn’t do my undergraduate studies at NTU, but through the FlexiMasters programme, I truly felt like part of the NTU family. The opportunity to connect with professors and peers enriched my learning experience and expanded my professional network.”
On a personal level, Nurul’s journey through the FlexiMasters in HR Thought Leadership programme has meant so much more than just professional growth and continuous learning. She has learned to become a more empathetic HR practitioner, and now feels empowered to lead as a strategic, compassionate HR leader – ready to navigate the complexities of the modern workplace while keeping the human spirit alive.
She encourages other HR professionals to take the leap. “Even if you feel you don’t have enough experience, the programme challenges you to grow. The blend of theory and real-world application makes it ideal for busy professionals looking to upskill and lead with purpose.”
FlexiMasters in HR Thought Leadership (For HR Practitioners)
The programme is suitable for current HR practitioners keen to strengthen their business, digital, and financial acumen to better contribute to their organizational effectiveness at the leadership level.
The programme offers a sequence of five graduate courses will give participants a broad exposure to strategic management, finance fundamentals, Business ethics, and newer topics such as Analytics Technology in Business and Digital marketing.