HR Isn't "Fluffy": The Strategic Side of People | Lynn MacDonald, CEO of Prettys Solicitors

In this episode of the UK Director Business podcast, host Sue Wilcock and co-host Rob Thacker talk to Lynn MacDonald, CEO at Prettys Solicitors. From a Saturday job at B&Q to becoming CEO of Prettys in 2026, Lynn's career journey is a masterclass in following your strengths. She shares her experience working in HR across the public and private sectors, challenges the stigma often attached to the profession, and explains why finding a job that feels easy isn't a weakness, but a sign you've found what you're naturally good at. This episode is brought to you in association with Affinia, the accountancy and tax advisory firm helping businesses and individuals make better financial decisions with confidence. To find out more: http://www.ukdirectormagazines.co.uk/ -- 00:00 Intro 01:01 Who is Lynn MacDonald? 01:35 From Radiography To HR 02:27 Mentors And First Breaks 03:54 Finding The Right Fit 06:47 Learning To Say No 10:10 Parents And Early Drive 10:57 Switch To Public Sector 12:48 Handling Tough HR Calls 17:06 Unions And Politics 18:43 Global HR At Maersk 22:01 Work Life Balance Pivot 22:43 Joining Prettys Solicitors 23:52 Hybrid Working Transformation 25:53 Clients In A Remote World 26:59 Remote Reach After Covid 27:17 Hybrid Confidentiality Rules 29:02 Trust Based Firm Culture 30:27 Growing Talent In House 30:58 Our Sponsor Affinia - Making Tax Digital 32:48 From HR To CEO Journey 34:39 Strategic HR In Boardroom 36:06 Leading As A Woman CEO 40:13 Learning To Run A Business 42:06 Plain English Communication Shift 43:55 CEO Challenges And Pace 45:14 AI Threat And Opportunity 47:03 Future Vision For Prettys 49:31 Wellbeing Hobbies And Balance 50:33 Family Bucket List And Travel 51:40 Sustainable Pace Avoid Burnout 52:49 Advice To Kids "Say Yes"