Toneya Sarwar is a dynamic motivational speaker and accomplished HR leader who currently serves as Senior Director of People and Culture for International Sales at Mitel, overseeing HR initiatives in over 100 countries and guiding a diverse team of more than 1000 employees. Her strategic focus on workforce planning, leadership development, and talent management has transformed organisational practices and culture. With a proven record of diversity and inclusion advocacy and impactful change management, Toneya is frequently hired as a speaker to inspire transformational leadership and positive change.
With an educational foundation in Managerial Studies and International Relations, Toneya began her career as a Senior Consultant at EC International, quickly demonstrating an aptitude for strategic management and organisational development. She then moved on to serve as Senior Branch Manager at Pertemps, further honing her skills in leadership and human resources and solidifying her commitment to excellence.
In 2007, Toneya joined Cisco Systems as Head of Graduate Recruitment, and her career went from strength to strength as she took on the role of Human Resources Manager in 2013 and then became Senior Human Resources Business Partner in 2015. During this period, she improved female diversity within the Cisco SLT, mandated diverse interviews and implemented a robust investment plan for female middle managers. Toneya then took on the role of People and Communities Leader, where her expertise in executive HR strategies has driven significant organisational transformation.
Toneya Sarwar’s journey from early consultant roles to a leading position in global HR is a testament to her unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and strategic acumen. Her unparalleled expertise in developing and executing HR strategies has inspired countless professionals. As a keynote speaker, Toneya brings real-world insights and a passion for diversity, inclusion, and cultural transformation, making her a highly sought-after choice for organisations looking to spark innovative change and lasting impact. Her engaging delivery and profound corporate insights consistently empower audiences to refine their strategic leadership approaches.
