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The leader says that transparency builds trust and clarity, collaboration makes mobility successful, and agility equips us to respond quickly to changing business needs and employee aspirations.
For Bamidele Aremu, Director, Total Rewards – AMEA, Barry Callebaut, a good day is when he sees the impact of total rewards strategies translates into real engagement and growth for employees.
It’s when the perceived complexities that come with total rewards are broken down and translated into impact for employees — because with that, people can appreciate that the company is putting a lot of thought into how their compensation connects with the job they do.
An accomplished total rewards leader with extensive experience across the Asia, Middle East, and Africa (AMEA) region, Bamidele partners closely with senior leadership to design and implement compensation, benefits, and recognition strategies that align with business goals and enhance employee engagement.
In his current role, he consistently works and liaises with the global mobility teams to facilitate cross-border moves.
Ahead of his session at #TalentMobility 2026, he shares in this interview with Mary Ann Bundukin on his leadership philosophy, and on developing mobile and future-ready teams.
Q What does a “good day” at work look like for you, that kind of day that reminds you why you love what you do in HR?
A good day, for me, is when I see the impact of our total rewards strategies translating into real engagement and growth for employees. It’s when the perceived complexities that come with total rewards is broken down and translated into impact for employees — because with that, people can appreciate that the company is putting a lot of thought into how their compensation connects with the job they do.
Sometimes there are gaps but that is the beauty of the job — to figure it out proactively, fix and allow employees focus on deliverables
Q People often turn to HR for support, but who or what helps you recharge and stay inspired?
I recharge by connecting with my team locally and the global total rewards team. We are constantly discussing the next steps for greater improvements, plus a bit of “energetic” firefighting.
Outside of work, I find energy in family time, doing a bit of exercising, watching great TV shows, cracking jokes that are not funny, and sipping some whiskey on Friday night.
Q If you could describe your leadership philosophy in three words, what would they be, and how do these guide your approach to developing mobile, future-ready teams?
Transparency. Collaboration. Agility. Transparency builds trust and clarity, which are essential when employees consider internal moves or cross-border opportunities. It is about them knowing what is in it for them in advance, quantitatively and qualitatively.
Collaboration is what makes mobility successful — every unit, especially in HR, must work together to make the talent flow seamless and an enjoyable transition.
Finally, agility equips us to respond quickly to changing business needs and employee aspirations especially where cultural differences occur.
Q As a speaker at #TalentMobility, what is the key message you hope attendees will take away from your session?
Internal mobility is more than a retention tactic — it’s a strategic lever for engagement.
When employees see they can get new opportunities in new climes based on the value they have added, they stay invested in the organisation's success. However, enabling this requires cultural change:
"Leaders must be at the forefront of leading this, not resist it - and allow investment flow into mobility."
Employees as well must show that they are worth the investment (considering cross-border movements are costly) by delivering on the remit/company expectations either for skills transfer or skills development.
I want to attend the conference: If you're keen to attend this closed-door conference, kindly register your interest here. For speaking opportunities, please write in to Mary Ann Bundukin. We look forward to welcoming you!
I want to sponsor: Engage in meaningful dialogue through dedicated speaking slots, roundtable discussions, and at your booths! If your organisation provides any mobility talent solutions and products, you’ll fit right into this event. To learn how you can sponsor, please reach out to a member of our team now!
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