Nazim Unlu

Nazim Unlu is an accomplished HR & Business leader with over 15 years of experience across diverse industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture and food, consumer goods, and banking. He is celebrated for his ability to simplify complex problems and build consensus across regions and cultures, driving successful change initiatives and transformations in complex, global environments. Nazim's expertise spans multi-country leadership, talent management and acquisition, digital and agile HR transformation, strategic HR business partnering, organizational design, and DEI. His leadership is marked by his talent for identifying and nurturing "hidden gems," creating ecosystems that support their growth and success.
At Novartis, Nazim has held several key positions, leading global transformations, developing balanced people strategies, and implementing digital and agile working standards. He brings a rich international perspective to his work and proudly identifies as an HR Scientist and a lifelong learner. Nazim has completed the prestigious Chief Human Resources Program at The Wharton School, along with executive leadership programs at INSEAD and Harvard University. He has delivered inspiring keynotes at major conferences on HR future readiness, HR tech integration, and HR and AI modeling. Additionally, he serves as a visiting lecturer at a university, sharing his knowledge and passion with the next generation of leaders.
Nazim has a strong interest in digitalization and AI, having worked as the HR Lead for the R&D Digital program called data42 at Novartis. He has been a key advocate for integrating HR technology to enhance efficiency and employee experience.
Nazim's unwavering commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity is evident in his approach to creating balanced and psychologically safe work environments. His dedication to this cause began in his pre-career days as a project leader in Turkey, where he developed and designed diverse projects for an NGO. He supported young individuals in finding their purpose and overcoming obstacles to achieve their goals. This passion continues to drive him as he actively practices and shares his approach with colleagues and audiences worldwide. Nazim firmly believes that building an equitable and inclusive workplace where everyone can be their best and authentic selves is not only possible but essential.
Humbled by his recognition, Nazim is the proud recipient of several awards, including the He for She Award from the Turkish Businesswomen Association, the Innovation HR Award, and the D&I Award. He mentors many young individuals and has recently collaborated with TechFace and the Girls in Tech Platform to support women's careers in STEM. Nazim's journey is a testament to the power of dedication, inclusivity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.