Why Did You Join the Advisory Board?

For the members of Deel’s newly launched Advisory Board on the Future of Work, the decision to join was rooted in their shared commitment to shaping the future of the global workforce. They bring a wealth of experience from diverse backgrounds, aiming to address the complex challenges facing businesses, workers, and policymakers in an evolving employment landscape.

An Industry-First Initiative

Over the past five years, seismic shifts in the workforce, economy, and culture have prompted companies to rethink their global strategies. Deel’s vision is to serve as the all-in-one employment infrastructure for global companies, making it easier for businesses to hire, pay, and manage a global workforce. To achieve this ambitious goal, Deel has launched an industry-first Advisory Board on the Future of Work, composed of former policymakers and regulators with deep experience in labor and economic policy.

The Advisory Board, featuring esteemed members Elaine Chao, Charlotte Corley, Seth Harris, and Heidi Heitkamp, will provide critical insights to help Deel excel in an increasingly complex labor and regulatory environment. By working closely with Deel’s leadership, the board will help shape the company’s engagement with policymakers and influence key areas such as artificial intelligence in HR, worker classification, compensation, equity, and more. This collaboration will ensure that Deel’s products and partnerships are aligned with the latest trends and regulations, solidifying its reputation within the HR ecosystem.

Honored to Contribute Expertise

Elaine Chao, Former U.S. Secretary of Labor, joined the Advisory Board due to her long-standing interest in addressing the complexities of human resources. Reflecting on her decision, Chao noted, "As a former secretary of Labor, one of the most common complaints and concerns that I heard about, not only while I was secretary but throughout my whole career, was how difficult the human resource function can be. Yet we're in an era of globalization where labor is mobile, and talent is the determining factor in an enterprise's success." Her insights into global labor mobility and the challenges of modern workforce management make her a valuable asset to Deel’s mission.

Charlotte Corley, a former Commissioner of the Mississippi Department of Banking, was drawn to the advisory board by the opportunity to collaborate with a team that places a strong emphasis on compliance and audit. "I was honored to be invited to serve alongside such an esteemed group of advisors and work with the great team the founders of Deel put together," Charlotte said. With her extensive experience in financial regulation, she is excited to help Deel navigate the complex rules governing global business operations.

Supporting Small and Medium Businesses

Heidi Heitkamp, former U.S. Senator and a champion for small businesses, joined the board with a clear focus on empowering emerging companies. "My whole career has been trying to build opportunity for small and medium-sized businesses… an emerging new business that wants to do something global, this is exactly what they need," Heidi explained. She sees Deel as a crucial partner for small businesses looking to expand internationally, aligning with her broader mission of fostering American entrepreneurship and economic growth.

Elaine Chao also highlighted how governments can support small businesses both domestically and abroad. "With all governments, they can help a great deal if they just do no harm. For entrepreneurial and creative societies, that means a reasonable low tax rate and less overly burdensome regulations," Chao stated. Her perspective underscores the need for a regulatory environment that fosters innovation and growth, ensuring that emerging businesses have the freedom to operate in dynamic markets.

Empowering Workers Globally

Seth Harris, former Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor, emphasized the importance of providing workers with the tools they need to thrive in a global economy. "I think workers are better off when employers have human resource systems that build in compliance and also provide workers with the help they need to solve problems," Seth noted. He is eager to contribute to Deel’s efforts to enable workers to use their skills across borders, ensuring they have the opportunity to succeed no matter where they are in the world.

Elaine Chao echoed the focus on worker empowerment, emphasizing the changing landscape of work in a post-pandemic world. "COVID had a tremendous influence—flexibility and freedom in wanting to do work in a way that the individual worker desires," Chao said. She pointed out that the labor participation rate is still lower than it was pre-COVID, indicating that workers now demand greater freedom and work-life balance. Employers must adapt to these new expectations to attract and retain talent.

A Collective Vision for the Future of Work

The formation of Deel’s Advisory Board on the Future of Work comes at a critical time. As businesses, workers, and governments adapt to a rapidly changing employment landscape, the insights and guidance from experienced policymakers and regulators will be invaluable. The board’s collective expertise will not only help Deel navigate the complexities of global labor regulations but also ensure that its customers are well-positioned to thrive in the future of work.

Elaine Chao highlighted the rapid advancements in technology, particularly artificial intelligence, as a key driver of change. "We're increasingly in an information economy," Chao noted. "We are now seeing the advent of artificial intelligence that is dramatically changing the way in which we work together." She emphasized the need for continuous learning and adaptation, with AI supplementing much of the learning for workers. Chao also stressed the role of the private sector in creating an environment conducive to job creation through favorable tax policies and less burdensome regulations.

By bringing together such a diverse and experienced group, Deel is taking a proactive approach to shaping the future of the global workforce. The advisory board members, with their unique backgrounds and shared commitment to innovation and growth, are poised to make a significant impact on how companies worldwide manage and empower their teams.