In the dynamic landscape of the digital sector, where change is the only constant, NCR Voyix is charting a course for the future of work by prioritising its people. Through a strategic focus on empowerment, employee experience, and fostering a deep sense of belonging, senior HR leader Jane Elliott, CHRO at NCR Voyix, is not just navigating the present challenges but actively building the workforce of tomorrow.

A Flexible and Empowering Workplace Model

NCR Voyix operates on a full capacity model, maximising the use of its office spaces while embracing flexibility where it makes sense. This isn't a rigid, one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, leaders and managers are empowered to tailor decisions based on their team's specific needs and space availability. For hands-on roles, like testing self-checkout machines, physical presence is non-negotiable. However, for other functions, managers have the autonomy to determine the best working arrangements.

"Our model is built around empowerment," states Elliott. "We provide the framework, and leaders determine what fits their teams, depending on the site and job requirement.” This adaptable approach supports approximately 75% of NCR Voyix’s global teams working together in offices, helping them to sharpen their focus on delivering exceptional customer outcomes while strengthening employee engagement.

Future-Proofing Through Continuous Growth and Curiosity

Ensuring a future-ready workforce is a cornerstone of NCR Voyix's HR strategy, beginning with a strong emphasis on continuous training and development. The company offers a wide array of upskilling opportunities, from LinkedIn Learning access to various certification programs, supporting diverse career paths globally.

Beyond formal training, there's a strong push to cultivate curiosity across the entire organisation. "Employees in all functions and geographies—not just tech—are encouraged to experiment and come up with new ideas," explains the CHRO. This is supported by frequent micro-trainings and learning programs designed to keep skills sharp and relevant. The underlying belief is clear: when employees feel that their growth is valued, they are more engaged, productive, and ultimately, innovative.

This commitment to internal growth is deeply intertwined with NCR Voyix's "build versus buy" talent strategy. "We want to build talent from within wherever possible, rather than constantly buying from the market," Elliott clarifies, emphasising a long-term vision for workforce development.

The Power of Emotional Connection and Purpose

Future-proofing isn't just about skills; it's about creating a profound emotional connection and fostering a sense of belonging and engagement. When employees have a positive experience, they become powerful ambassadors, organically building the company's employer brand through referrals and shared stories.

The "Experience Lens" in Every HR Initiative

Every HR initiative at NCR Voyix is viewed through an "experience lens." It's not enough for policies to make sense on paper; they must actively support and align with employees' growth and development. "Sometimes it’s as simple as communicating clearly or choosing the right time to launch an initiative. Small tweaks can have a big impact," notes Elliott. The philosophy is that positive employee experiences will naturally translate into enhanced customer experiences, creating a virtuous cycle of trust and satisfaction.

Navigating Challenges: Stability, Transformation, and AI

The journey hasn't been without its hurdles. A significant challenge for Elliott upon joining NCR Voyix nearly two years ago was leadership instability, as she was the fifth HR leader in five years. Such frequent turnover often leads to disengagement and fragmented execution. Simultaneously, the company was undergoing a massive transformation, pivoting from an ATM manufacturing business to a software-first, platform-led organisation.

"That meant not only aligning the business but also rebuilding HR as a more connected, unified function," Elliott explains. Previously siloed HR teams are now unified, both within India and across the 30-plus global countries where NCR Voyix operates. This newfound cohesion allows the HR team to focus on foundational improvements, such as building a new career framework that reflects the software-centric nature of the business, allowing employees to visualize clear vertical and horizontal growth paths.

She highlights that leadership stability is crucial for building a strong employer brand in the fast-paced digital sector. "If people don’t feel like they’re on a stable path, it impacts how they view their future—both with the company and in the industry," Elliott notes.

In the era of AI, NCR Voyix is exploring its potential to combat employee burnout and disengagement. Elliott describes developing tools that use AI to detect early signs of disengagement, enabling proactive intervention. Crucially, she views AI not as a replacement for human employees but as a tool to eliminate mundane tasks, freeing up valuable time for creativity, strategy, and meaningful work. Elliott concurs, "Time is the most valuable resource. If AI can give back time for learning, innovation, or meaningful work, that’s a win for well-being and retention."

The Evolution of Leadership: Trust, Communication, and Accessibility

Keeping pace with evolving employee expectations, particularly around trust and empathy, is paramount. Elliott stresses the importance of constant communication. "We’re constantly asking ourselves: How else can we say this message? Which channels can we use? How can we reach more people in a way that feels personal and authentic?" says Elliott. The goal is to make employees feel like they are an integral part of a winning team, fostering engagement by clearly demonstrating how their contributions drive the company's success.

Active listening is equally vital. Elliott points to a comprehensive Total Rewards survey in India as an example of how the company actively seeks and values employee feedback. "Our leadership genuinely wants feedback, and that feedback shapes what we do," she affirms. Elliott adds, "I always tell my team: I’m not a mind reader. If you don’t speak up, I won’t know. But if you do, we’ll listen and act on it."

NCR Voyix champions a flat, accessible leadership culture. According to Elliott, there is an open-door ethos that extends throughout the organisation, with the CEO directly reaching out to employees several levels down the hierarchy when needed. "Speed matters, and hierarchy slows things down," she asserts. This culture empowers individuals closest to the work to make decisions, reflecting a strong growth mindset.