Tom Sterling

Background

About Tom Sterling

MY WHY - To inspire and serve the people I meet every day. So that together, we can inspire others and make great things happen.Here's what that looks like in practice: As VP of People Solutions Operations at Cox Automotive, I lead a talented team proving that HR can be a strategic transformation engine, not just a support function. As one of Cox Automotive's Enterprise AI Champions, I'm helping navigate one of the most significant workforce transformations of our time.I'm passionate about preparing organizations for AI adoption—building the right foundations through organizational design, change leadership, and cultures that embrace transformation. From developing on-demand workforce insights to reimagining how AI agents and humans collaborate, I believe the future of work is something we actively build together.I bring 20+ years of HR operations excellence, from designing global shared services models to leading enterprise-wide workforce management transformations. But what really drives me? Developing future leaders, creating cultures of engagement and collaboration, and using my optimism and passion to help teams navigate change. As an active speaker in the HR Shared Services industry and experienced mentor and coach, I'm frequently sought out for guidance on transformation challenges, leadership development, and navigating organizational change.I'm data-driven but understand that qualitative insights tell the real story. Known as a change agent who makes things happen while keeping people at the center. Active member of the Executive Council for Leading Change, connecting with leaders who are also navigating transformation.Let's connect if you're exploring AI adoption, workforce innovation, or how to make organizational transformation actually work in the real world.