Tift Shepherd
senior HR executive and former CHRO
In this interview with Women in Chemicals, Tift Shepherd, senior HR executive and former CHRO, reflects on a career shaped by bold pivots, global experiences, and a deep commitment to people and collaboration. From her early legal career to moving abroad and ultimately transitioning into HR leadership, Tift shares how stepping outside her comfort zone strengthened her perspective, adaptability, and leadership style. She discusses the importance of curiosity, authenticity, intentional relationship‑building, and personal well‑being, emphasizing that meaningful impact and alignment with one’s values matter more than titles. The conversation offers thoughtful guidance for professionals navigating change in global, complex organizations.
Professional Background and Early Career
Tift shares her upbringing in rural Georgia, her education at the University of Georgia, and her early legal career supporting coatings and chemicals at Akzo Nobel. Her time with the organization, which later became Nouryon, laid the foundation for nearly two decades of experience across legal, global, and people leadership roles.
Taking on a Global Role and Living Abroad
The interview explores Tift’s decision to relocate from Atlanta to Amsterdam for her first global role. She discusses the professional stretch and personal challenges of moving abroad, how the experience reshaped her thinking, and why working in a multinational environment became a defining force in her career and family life.
Career Pivot from Legal to HR Leadership
One of the most significant themes is Tift’s transition from General Counsel to Chief Human Resources Officer. She shares what inspired the shift, the learning curve involved, and how moving from being the expert to empowering experts around her transformed her leadership approach. She highlights decisiveness, humility, and trust as critical growth areas.
Collaboration, Learning, and Authentic Leadership
Tift emphasizes collaboration across functions and geographies, noting that curiosity and openness are essential in global organizations. She speaks candidly about evolving communication styles, learning to be more direct, and the importance of transparency and authenticity when leading teams.
Building Networks and Community
The conversation underscores the value of intentionally building professional networks before they are needed. Tift explains how listening, showing up, and maintaining long‑term relationships contributed significantly to her success, particularly in senior leadership roles.
Reflection, Reset, and Redefining Success
Currently taking a career pause, Tift reflects on rest, clarity, and redefining what success means today. Rather than focusing on the next big step, she prioritizes meaningful impact, connection to the business, and holistic well‑being. She closes with advice for the Women in Chemicals community centered on fun, balance, and caring for the whole self.
This episode was sponsored by:
