The Future Of Less Work How Will AI Affect Hiring with Michael Kienle
How will AI affect hiring—and what does it mean for the future of talent?
In this episode of The Future of Less Work, Michael Kienle, Global VP of Talent Acquisition at L’Oréal, joins host Nirit Cohen to explore how global companies are navigating the shifting world of work. From AI’s role in recruitment to the growing importance of soft skills and human potential, Michael shares how L’Oréal is adapting its talent strategy in response to changing expectations, evolving technology, and a new generation of workers. Together, they dive into why companies that invest equally in people and tech will lead the future—and how candidate experience, flexibility, and internal mobility are becoming essential to staying competitive.
Guest Information:
Michael Kienle is the Global Vice President of Talent Acquisition at L'Oréal, bringing over two decades of experience in human resources. He began his career with L'Oréal in Germany in 1999 as a Junior Product Manager before transitioning to the HR department in 2001. His early roles included positions in Recruitment and Employer Branding at L'Oréal Germany, followed by a move to the Learning department within L'Oréal's Active Cosmetics Division in Paris in 2003.
Chapters:
00:00 — L’Oréal’s Five Human Potential Criteria?03:15 — How Gen Z Is Redefining Work and Success05:40 — Why L’Oréal Didn’t Go Fully Remote After COVID08:10 — How AI Is Used in the Hiring Process10:20 — Will AI Replace Recruiters?12:05 — How AI Improves Decision-Making With Better Data13:55 — What New Roles Are Emerging in the Talent Market?15:50 — Soft Skills Matter More in the Age of AI17:55 — How to Measure Potential19:45 —The Power Dynamic Has Shifted Toward Candidates21:35 — AI Won’t Reverse the Talent Shortage23:15 — Candidate Experience Impacts Brand Loyalty25:00 — Internal Mobility Resonates With Gen Z27:15 — How to Support Boomerang Employees30:15 — Why Companies Must Invest Equally in People and Tech