72andsunny

Emily Venizelos

Emily Venizelos is a seasoned expert in talent management across advertising and creative-led organizations. As the chief talent officer at 72andSunny, she champions high-performance workplaces and aligns people strategy with a mission to foster collaboration and growth without boundaries.

In an interview with Manage HR, Venizelos highlighted her commitment to building a workplace culture that is performance-oriented and compassionate. She emphasized the importance of feedback and having a learner’s mindset to support creativity and continuous growth across teams.

A Career Shaped by Practical Solutions

As a psychology major planning to pursue social work, I hadn’t considered a path in human resources until my mentor saw potential in me. She encouraged me to explore it, and that guidance changed everything.

During my first few years in HR, I had to learn quickly through trial and error, managing everything from payroll to organizational shifts. Those experiences taught me adaptability and the importance of creative problem-solving.

“Success happens when every employee feels supported. Organizations should support people at every stage of life, helping them grow and carry those lessons forward.”

It has guided me throughout my career, especially during moments like the COVID-19 pandemic, when we were challenged to develop policies from scratch.

Fostering a Culture of Support and Trust

My vision is to make our agency the best place to work, uniting creative thinking and a people-first culture. I strive to build a culture rooted in feedback and openness while upholding the highest standards.

Success happens when every employee feels supported. Organizations should support people at every stage of life, helping them grow and carry those lessons forward.

This approach aligns with our creative mission, ‘play to win.’ At 72andSunny, we don’t sell products, we sell ideas. When people feel valued and supported, they do their best work and find purpose in it. This cycle of trust and excellence is what keeps our culture strong.

Building Strong Teams through Individual Growth

High performance is central to the way 72andSunny operates. From the very first conversation with potential hires, we clearly communicate the standards and expectations of our organization. This transparency shapes how we work and grounds our culture in clarity and accountability.

My team and I provide the tools and guidance people need to succeed. We take a personalized approach, supporting them through challenges and growth, and strive to balance ambition with empathy to fuel their personal and professional development.

Strengthening Leadership through Collaborative Experiences

Being part of the Forbes Human Resources Council has given me access to meaningful conversations and peers who understand the realities of HR eadership. It connects individuals facing similar challenges, offering space to share and explore ideas like the applications of AI in the workforce.

The collaborative environment functions like a think tank where innovative ideas and shared experiences lead to stronger solutions. It reinforces the value of continuous learning, regardless of experience or leadership level.

Having trusted peers to exchange insights with is essential, especially since HR can be a lonely role. These networks strengthen both professional growth and personal resilience.

Advice for Aspiring HR Professionals

Willingness to learn and flexibility are essential qualities for any HR leader. I entered the field without all the answers, but with a strong desire to learn. Asking questions and using every resource available helped me build my understanding from the ground up. That commitment to continuous learning shaped my leadership approach and taught me that real growth comes from staying curious and open to discovery.

For me, flexibility means going beyond policies to truly support people’s needs. By listening with empathy and responding with optimism, we can build workplaces that care for their people and create a lasting, positive impact.