Karen Hammond

Karen Hammond says that family is the heartbeat of everything she does. “I’m married to a wonderful husband, Trevor, and we have two incredible children,” she reflects, her voice warm and full of affection. “They are my anchor, my joy, and my constant inspiration.”

Today, Karen serves as Group Head of People at the Meridian Group, a company she describes with pride and conviction. “Meridian is more than a business,” she explains. “We exist to make brands thrive, to nurture our people, and to give back to our communities. We provide services like merchandising, sales, data analytics, and in-store execution to help Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMC) brands thrive and increase sales. When a customer walks into a store and finds exactly what they need, that’s not just business, that is the human touch behind every shelf and every smile. That is what makes our work meaningful.”

Her role, she says, is more than a career, it is a calling. “This aligns so deeply with who I am and what I value,” Karen reflects. “At Meridian, we are not just building a company; we are cultivating a culture where people feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.”

She lights up when speaking of her team. “Our merchandisers are extraordinary,” she says with pride.
“When you next visit a store, look for Meridian. They are the absolute best in the business.”

A JOURNEY WOVEN WITH GROWTH AND GRATITUDE
Karen’s career spans over 25 years in human resources, with 15 of those in senior leadership. “I was headhunted for this position, it felt like a blessing,” she recalls.Her professional path has been rich and diverse, beginning at Durban International Convention Centre (ICC), University of KwaZulu-Natal, PwC, Nedbank, moving to Dimension Data, then Sun International, and now into Meridian, each step reinforcing her belief that people are at the heart of every great organisation. Her philosophy is simple yet powerful: “If you treat your people well, they will take care of your business.”

It is this people-first approach that has earned her admiration across industries and shaped her leadership
philosophy. Interestingly, human resources was not her original plan. “I dreamed of becoming a nurse,” she says with a laugh, “but I quickly realised I could not handle the sight of blood. My love for people guided me into human resources instead, and I have never looked back.”

A HEART FOR COMMUNITY
Karen’s vision extends far beyond boardrooms and business meetings. She dreams of one day opening a
centre for the homeless, a haven offering warm meals, safe beds, and skills development opportunities.
“I want to give people the tools to create opportunities for themselves,” she says with quiet determination. “Cooking, sewing, basic computer skills, these are simple things that can change a life. I believe I will achieve this one day.” Her spirit of empowerment is already reflected in Meridian Group’s community partnerships, including initiatives with the Restory Foundation and eDeaf Empower and Employ. “Through these programmes, we provide learnerships and practical experience to young people, many of whom have now become permanent members of the Meridian family. It is something I am deeply proud of.”

FAITH, FAMILY, AND MENTORSHIP
Faith and family remain Karen’s anchors. “My inspiration comes from God, from my husband, children and extended family and friends. They remind me daily to give my best in everything I do.” She also pays tribute to the mentors who shaped her journey, particularly Vangeli Chiliza, former human resources director at the Durban ICC. “He believed in me when I was still very new to human resources,” she reflects. “His guidance and belief in my potential changed the trajectory of my career. I carry that gratitude with me always."

TURNING CHALLENGES INTO TRIUMPHS
Karen’s life has not been without its challenges. In 2019, she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, a moment that tested every ounce of her resilience. “Hearing the word cancer changes everything,” she says softly. “But I realised that if I allowed fear to control me, I couldn’t continue uplifting others the way I wanted to.”
With courage, faith, and optimism, she faced the battle head-on and won. “I focused on healing and on positivity,” she says. “Today, I am a survivor. I am living proof that challenges can become triumphs, you can overcome them, and I did.”

A LEGACY OF EMPOWERMENT
Recognition has followed her throughout her career, including the ‘Natural Born Winner’ Award at Nedbank for transforming people strategy and boosting morale, yet humility defines her approach. “Accolades are wonderful, but for me, the real reward is seeing people grow,” she says. “When someone finds their confidence, lands their dream job, or discovers their purpose, that’s what truly fulfills me.”

To young women building their careers, Karen offers timeless advice: “Do not let anyone else define who you
are. You define yourself. Let your beauty shine from within. Be fearless. Be unstoppable.”
LOOKING AHEAD
As she looks toward the future, Karen’s dreams are rooted in simplicity and purpose. “I want to continue
making a difference, but also to spend time with my family, travel, and enjoy the simple things,” she says. “The sea restores me. Long walks on the beach and time with loved ones, that is what nourishes my soul. Those are life’s true treasures.”

With a soft smile, she reflects on her journey, one shaped by purpose, faith, and a genuine love for people. “My life has been guided by those three things,” she says. “And that, to me, is everything.”