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About: Ron Thomas

Ron Thomas is a globally recognized HR strategist and educator, serving as Managing Director of Strategy Focused Group with offices in Dubai, New York, and Singapore. 

Ron Thomas

Global HR Strategist and Leadership Expert

Ron Thomas is an internationally recognized strategist, HR thought leader, and educator shaping the future of work across continents. He currently serves as the Managing Director of Strategy Focused Group, a global consultancy headquartered in Dubai with offices in New York and Singapore. In this role, Ron partners with CEOs and executive teams to align workforce strategies with business transformation.

In July 2025, Ron was named one of the Top 10 Inspiring HR Leaders to Watch by CIO Arab Media, solidifying his influence as a leading voice in organizational and leadership excellence.

He serves as an Executive Faculty member at the Global Human Resources Leadership Institute at Howard University’s School of Business. He is an Adjunct Professor for the EMBA programs at Howard University and the American University in Dubai. His academic contributions are equipping the next generation of strategic HR leaders.

Senior Leadership Roles

  • CHRO of Al Raha Group, Riyadh

  • VP of HR, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, New York

  • CEO, Great Place to Work-MENA

He has provided counsel to institutions including the Central Bank of Nigeria, Dubai Tourism, and Singapore’s Civil Service.

Accolades

  • Top 5 HR Thinkers in the Middle East — CIPD

  • Global HR Excellence Award for Outstanding Leadership

  • Asia’s 50 Most Talented Global HR Leaders

  • Global 200 Inspirational Leaders Award

  • Power 200: The Biggest Voices in Leadership

Publications & Contributions

A prolific writer, Ron contributes regularly to ERE.net, HR.com, Economic Times HR World, HCI.org, and leading HR publications across the globe. His thought leadership has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Inc. Magazine, CEO.com, and Workforce.

Advisory Boards

  • The Stirling Centre for Strategic Learning and Innovation (University of Stirling Innovation Park), Scotland

  • Harvard Business Review Advisory Council

  • McKinsey Quarterly Executive Panel

  • Future Innovation Summit (Dubai)

Ron is the architect behind the Symphonic C-Suite leadership development experience and a frequent keynote speaker at global summits, masterclasses, and leadership forums.

With a deep belief in purposeful leadership and workforce innovation, Ron continues to empower leaders and institutions to build bold futures and agile workforces—regionally and globally.

Books

Videos

Testimonials

“It was great to share a stage with you ! Thanks again for your contributions to the Human Capability movement. You offered real specific insights and actionable tools to move it forwards.” Professor Dave Ulrich – expert on human impact on business success and father of modern HR
HR Horizon – 400 HR Directors Amsterdam
“Great listening your ideas which were extremely insightful and now part of my plans going forwards” - Paul Smith CEO, Aristotle Partners. “Thanks Chris; a real thought provoking and informative masterclass. Insightful ideas to take back to the workplace for action” - Paul Brammer – MD Nicholas Associates.
How to get 10% on bottom line for free – 40 CFOs / CEOs north UK
“AWESOME ! Thanks for bringing your unique perspective to our panel. Developing Human Intelligence and Capability are key to successful AI implementation !” Jon Clay, CDO Chairman
1 Hour Panel – Chief Digital Officers Institute - London
“Chris I found what you said really interesting and took notes to reflect on and see what I can do.”
Thierry Garnier, CEO Kingfisher Group. FTSE 100.
“Chris's has added tremendous value to the DIY industry, and his insights shared at our Global DIY-Summit 2023 were truly enlightening. We celebrate his contributions to innovation, leadership, and success in the DIY world!"
Event organisers
“Thank you for the delivery and inspirational thoughts and, I have one thing different I’m going to do!”
Nick Larkin, Corporate Affairs Director, Kingfisher Group.
“A brilliant presentation. Effective cultural leadership is an often understated skill that has the ability to transform organisations”
Tony Walker, Head of Competitor Insights, Bunnings
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Videos

Videos

Testimonials

“Erik Kruger has a rare ability to make leadership feel both deeply human and boldly future-fit. Every time I hear him, I walk away recalibrated. If your team or event needs a voice that challenges, elevates, and equips leaders for what’s next, Erik is that voice.”
JOHN SANEIFuturist, Bestselling author, Keynote speaker
“Our client loved Erik so much that he has been invited back to the conference again. His talk sparked meaningful conversations, challenged conventional thinking, and left the audience with tools they could immediately apply. A true standout on any stage.”
TOYOTALeadership Conference
“Erik’s keynote captivated our audience so completely that we invited him to create and lead a tailored leadership program for our organization. The transformation was so profound that we eagerly brought him back to repeat the experience the following year.”
PEPSICO
“You nailed it this morning! Feedback has been next level! Our CEO asked for the recording so he can watch your talk again with his kids. Well done.”
MOMENTUM
“Erik went above and beyond—bringing fresh perspectives, challenging conventional thinking, and inspiring new approaches to leadership. A true innovator, he doesn’t just share ideas; he reshapes mindsets. His professionalism, creativity, and commitment to excellence made all the difference. We would love to work with him again.”
ENTREPRENEURS ORGANISATIONGlobal Learning Manager
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