Hbc leverages the power of succession during change

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how Hudson's Bay Company (Hbc) developed an integrated talent management strategy and anchored succession planning as a key strategic lever to build and retain top talent. Design/methodology/approach – The paper provides a description of Hbc's experience of building and developing a talent management strategy, the motivation and need behind it and how succession was used as a strategic tool in mitigating risk through external labor market pressures as well as a takeover. Findings – The paper established a model talent management strategy and its different aspects, mainly succession planning. It also articulated the thinking behind it, the processes around it and benefits from it. Originality/value – This paper offers organizations a view into the benefits of developing a sound talent management and succession strategy and leveraging its power to engage top talent.