HR professionals connecting and learning at the SHRM conference in San Diego.
Former President Joe Biden addressed nearly 20,000 HR professionals at the SHRM 2025 conference in San Diego. He highlighted the crucial role of human resources, emphasizing the need for empathetic leadership and inclusive workplaces. Reflecting on his post-presidency work and personal commitments, Biden reinforced the importance of human connections in business. His participation alongside other former presidents demonstrates a commitment to the future of workforce development, addressing the evolving landscape influenced by economic changes and technology.
San Diego – On Wednesday, former President Joe Biden delivered the keynote address at the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) 2025 conference, which took place at the San Diego Convention Center. The event attracted nearly 20,000 HR professionals, both in-person and virtually, underlining the significant role of human resources in today’s workforce.
Biden began his speech by emphasizing the vital importance of the human resources field, asserting that the president should serve as the “chief people officer.” He highlighted the efforts of HR professionals in fostering positive and inclusive workplaces, which he believes are foundational to strong economies and a robust nation. The former president expressed gratitude for the dedication of HR professionals and their impact on workplace culture.
This year’s SHRM conference was particularly noteworthy as Biden joined former Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton as keynote speakers, highlighting the event’s relevance within the human resources industry. Biden’s address included reflections on his activities after leaving office, including ongoing engagement with world leaders, and a light-hearted mention of his personal hobby of driving his vintage ’67 Corvette.
During his time at the conference, Biden also addressed speculation about his political future and stated unequivocally that he has no plans to run for office again, mentioning he is “feeling good.” His candid approach resonated with attendees, who appreciated his openness about personal and professional matters.
SHRM President and CEO Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. noted that Biden’s insights as a global leader provide a unique perspective on the future of work. The former president shared thoughts on the importance of leadership in navigating an evolving workforce landscape, emphasizing the necessity for workplaces to adapt in response to economic changes and innovations in artificial intelligence.
Biden urged conference attendees to prioritize human connections in the workplace, advocating for leadership that exemplifies empathy and personal engagement. He shared personal anecdotes about balancing professional obligations with family commitments, underscoring the significance of remembering employees’ birthdays and appreciating their familial bonds. He recounted a memo he sent as Vice President, encouraging his team to value important family milestones over work commitments.
The core message from Biden’s address was that when employees feel cared for by their employers, they are more likely to perform at their best. He stressed that genuine leadership is rooted in recognizing and nurturing the human element in work environments.
After his address, Biden announced plans to travel to Los Angeles to meet his first great-grandson, a testament to his focus on family amidst a busy schedule of public engagements. His participation in the SHRM conference reflects a continuous commitment to shaping the conversation around workforce development and the critical role of human resources in modern workplaces.
The SHRM conference serves as a platform for HR professionals to gather, share, and learn about evolving practices and innovations in their field, reinforcing the crucial contributions of human resources to society and the economy.
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