Bridging the Tech Gap: Applying Generational Insights to HR Tech Implementation 

Following the keynote Bridge the Gap: Building Generational Intelligence™ in Disrupted Workplaces, this session shifts the lens to HR technology implementation—through the practical, often messy, and always human realities faced by HR managers in Aotearoa.

Whether you're rolling out a new HRIMS, replacing legacy systems, or navigating tech changes directed from Australia or further afield, one challenge is constant: your people span generations, with diverse digital skills, preferences, and expectations. Many are based in regional or remote sites. The pace, tone, and tools of change are often set offshore. And too often, what’s meant to help might feel burdensome rather than enabling.

This interactive session will explore how multigenerational insights can help HR leaders:

• Anticipate adoption barriers and motivators across age groups.
• Communicate system changes in a way that builds trust and understanding.
• Design training and support that works for both tech-savvy Gen Zs and digitally cautious Baby Boomers.
• Influence group-level rollouts by offering feedback grounded in your local workforce reality.
• Build real engagement— so new tools are embraced, not just endured.

Grounded in real New Zealand case examples, this session offers practical tools and takeaways to help you become a strategic voice in tech change—whether you're at the head table or holding things together at the satellite site.
(Yes, this presentation is Gen Z friendly 😊😉)

About Hennie

Hennie is the Chief People Officer at Open Country, New Zealand’s largest privately owned milk processor, where he leads the People, Safety, and Communication functions. He brings more than 20 years of people leadership experience across a range of industries in South Africa and New Zealand.
Throughout his career, Hennie has focused on developing people-focused solutions to business challenges. He has built HR functions from the ground up for two greenfield mining projects, giving him valuable experience in scaling people operations to meet business needs and driving culture and efficiency from the outset.

In his current role, Hennie is responsible for shaping the people strategy and leading a range of transformational projects that integrate people, safety, and wellness – bringing together compliance, culture, and care. He holds a Master’s degree in Business Leadership from the University of South Africa and a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of the Free State. In his session, Hennie will explore how generational insights can support the successful implementation of HR technologies—offering practical guidance for HR leaders navigating change across diverse workforces.