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| 2 minutes read

What do Tina Turner and a CHRO have in common?

No, the title of this post is not setting up a joke. There's an interesting analogy of strengths, focus, and abilities between Tina Turner and a quality Chief Human Resource Officer (CHRO). This article by Lisa May Young puts it best: "Tina Turner wasn’t only a music legend; she was a symbol of strength under adversity and an example of possibility and what could be if you let your light shine."

Ron Labin, Plus Relocation's VP of Business Development, explains that Tina Turner almost kept him from the #TalentMobility and #HR industries. In a recent LinkedIn post, Ron shares more and explains the answer to our question:

"Just after high school and in my early college years in SoCal, I started doing bit parts and extra work in movies, TV and commercials. It was an easy way to break into the entertainment industry, get my homework done and make a few bucks.
 
The first commercial I ever did was a #Pepsi commercial with Tina Turner. No, it wasn’t a speaking role. I was one of a hundred people making it look like we were at her concert, but the experience left an impression on me. After a few years, I ultimately left the entertainment industry to finish college and pursue my business career, but her passing 2 weeks ago got me reflecting on the #HR industry and life.
 
As I look back on those show biz days and now my #TalentMobility and #HR career, in the symphony of life, there are rare instances when seemingly disparate paths converge, creating a harmonious blend of success and impact. Such is the extraordinary journey of the legendary artist Tina Turner, whose illustrious career bears intriguing similarities to the role of a Chief Human Resource Officer (#CHRO).
 
Humor me and read on…
 
🎶 Firstly, both Tina Turner and a CHRO embody unparalleled resilience. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, Tina overcame adversity, transforming herself into a global icon. Likewise, a CHRO navigates the complexities of the corporate landscape, exhibiting unwavering determination to cultivate a thriving work culture and unleash the potential of every employee.
 
🎶 Secondly, both entities are masters of transformation. Tina’s evolution from an overshadowed performer to a solo superstar mirrors the CHRO’s ability to reshape an organization’s human capital strategies, fostering innovation, diversity and inclusivity. They both understand the profound impact that embracing change and nurturing talent can have on long-term success.
 
🎶 Moreover, Tina’s career thrived on collaboration, just as a CHRO fosters collaboration within an organization. Turner’s electrifying duets and partnerships showcased her ability to harmonize with diverse talents, much like a CHRO who strives to bridge gaps between teams, departments and individuals, fostering synergy and enhancing collective performance.
 
🎶 Lastly, both Tina Turner and a CHRO embody passion. (what’s love got to do with it?!?!) Turner’s explosive stage presence and soul-stirring performances exemplify her intense commitment to her craft. Similarly, a CHRO’s dedication to nurturing an engaged and empowered workforce fuels the organization’s growth and prosperity.
 
In essence, Tina’s remarkable career echoes the qualities of a CHRO. From resilience to transformation, collaboration to passion, her journey serves as a captivating reminder that success lies not only in the individual talent but also in harnessing the potential of human capital, both on stage and in the corporate realm."

Ron presumably then dropped the mic and walked off. 
I’m 18 years old and I’m watching the ‘What’s Love Got To Do With It’ film. Now, I knew Tina Turner from pixelated 80s tv, a singer with a belter of a voice and rock n’ roll swagger. The story of Anna Mae’s courage in the face of abuse shook me. If someone who overcame so much went on to flourish with a smile, perhaps, in some small way, there was hope for me too.