Welcome to the
Etihad Airways Development Academy

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The HR Business Partnering Suite



The role of the hr business partner is becoming broader, more demanding and more complex. As the organisational context becomes more challenging, the need for HR to effectively partner the business also increases.  

Reimagining HR Business Partnering

Informed by a survey of HR practitioners, our research identifies six capabilities that will be critical for effective future HR Business Partnering.

Recognised by SHRM to offer Professional Development Credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.

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#1 The Strategic Role of an HRBP

Translating business priorities into targeted organisational capability plans
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#2 Change Management Mastery

Building confidence, credibility, and influence at the executive level
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#3 Persuasive Analytics

Harness data analytics and storytelling to create insights that drive strategic action
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#6 Digital HR

Access the risks and opportunities of AI and technology, prioritising business needs while improving efficiency and experience
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#4 Commercial Acumen

Enhance business knowledge and adopt a business-first mindset, contributing to sustainable value creation
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#5 Agile HR Practices

Apply agile principles to HR for a more responsive function and organisation, ready to handle disruption

The Trusted Advisor - CRF'S AI Powered Simulation Coach

1. Building The Foundation of Trust
– Welcome & Programme Overview
– What is a Trusted Advisor
– Trust in Action: TQ Results
– Laddering & Sense Checking
– Listening to Understand
– Flawless Consulting: Advisor Journey
– Reflection & Capture

2. From Trust to Impact
– Influencing & Stakeholder Mapping
– Storytelling: ORACLE Model
– Radical Candour & Courageous        Conversations
– AI Simulation: Trusted Advisor
– Commitment and Integration

Click here to launch The Trusted Advisor simulation

Key Contacts

Director GCC Region, CRF

Michael Whelan

Michael Whelan is a Director at Corporate Research Forum (CRF), leading the organisation in the GCC region, based in the UAE. He supports the organisation’s global network of more than 270 organisations build the capability of their HR functions through evidence-based research, technology-enabled learning and development, expert events, and peer exchange.
Michael is also a Director at leading HR search and advisory firm Strategic Dimensions – CRF’s sister organisation.
Director, CRF

John Whelan

Formerly UK HR Director of BAE Systems, the FTSE 100 defence, security, and aerospace company, John’s experience and strengths lie in business and HR Transformation, Organisation Development and Employee Relations. Prior to joining BAE, he held a variety of HR roles in Engineering, Technology and Manufacturing businesses across the Telecommunications and semi-conductor industries including Matra-Marconi Space where he was HR Director for the UK and, latterly, Group HRD.

Meet Our CRF Faculty

Tony Verbraeken

International HR DIRECTOR AND SENIOR ADVISOR

Shaikha Al Harji

Senior consultant at concious consulting

Dr Belisa Marochi 

Prof. Hult Ashridge Executive education

Prof. Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic

Prof. of Business psychology at colombia and ucl

Athalie Williams

FORMER CHRO, BT Group

Jill DeMello

Former HR Advisor, Department of Government Enablement (DGE)

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Your CRF membership gives you unlimited access to our entire library of on-demand courses. Learn at your own pace through videos, quizzes, exercises and assignments.


Browse our annual programme of courses, delivered both face-to-face and online for intermediate and senior HR professionals; with the added value of learning and networking with peers from other organisations. 

Join us at one of our in-person or online events, where you’ll have the opportunity to connect with peers, share insights, and gain valuable perspectives from industry experts.

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