The future of work: participation, values and new organisation models in the speech by Stefano Belloni, HR manager at Italchimica
The world of work is undergoing an unprecedented transformation. The needs and expectations of workers have changed, influenced by different generations, evolving social contexts and an increasingly dynamic market. In this scenario, companies are called upon to rethink their organisational models in order to maintain employee engagement and ensure productivity and profitability.
During the event organised by AIDP, the Italian Association for Human Resources Management and CUOA Business School, on 28 January 2025 in Altavilla (Vicenza) entitled ‘New models for the future of work‘, Stefano Belloni, HR and Legal Affairs Manager at Italchimica, shared the company’s vision and experience in redefining its approach to work. A speech that highlighted how participation, values and flexibility are today at the heart of an organisational revolution.
Belloni retraced the history of the company, which was born in 2003 from an idea of three young brothers, has doubled its size in a few years and continues to grow, so much so that it has started the construction of a twin plant. This success is the result of an organisational model based on a strong participative approach, which has characterised the company since its inception.
As Belloni explained, ‘keeping this participation alive is crucial’. Today, the company is committed to promoting values that often have no place in the external social context. ‘We must understand without judging the new generations and those who see work not as the end of their existence, but as one of the aspects of their life,’ he emphasised.
Shared responsibility, the example of the pandemic
An emblematic example of this approach was the pandemic period. Despite the difficulties, Italchimica employees continued to work with dedication, driven by a shared vision and a sense of responsibility towards the company and the community. This has shown how important it is to transform each corporate role into an ambassador of the company, keeping everyone’s participation alive and vital.
Work as a place of life
Belloni highlighted how the traditional organisational model, based on a pyramid or matrix structure, is showing its limits. Today, it is necessary to create workplaces that turn into living places, where employees feel valued and involved.
‘Once there was the family model, today we want to maintain that participation,’ he said. ‘We must give young people what they ask for, through activities and opportunities that meet their needs. Participation is a key element for the success of the company.’
The event also featured speeches by other experts, who offered interesting insights into the future of work:
– Daniele Marini, Associate Professor at the University of Padua and author of the book ‘The Place of Work’, emphasised that work is no longer the centre of people’s lives, but one of the many aspects that contribute to personal fulfilment.
– Martina Gianecchini, Professor of Business Organisation, invited to get rid of judgement and adapt to a perma-crisis context, where participation and individual growth are key.
– Matteo Zanioli from Alpenite spoke about the importance of leaving people free to make decisions, while Martina Milan from Brevetti C.E.A. shared the challenges of the organisational change taking place in her company.
A revolution in progress
Stefano Belloni’s speech and the contributions of the other speakers highlighted a clear truth: the world of work is undergoing a revolution. Companies must adapt, listen to new needs and rethink their organisational models to remain competitive and attractive.
Italchimica, with its participatory approach and focus on values, can be a positive example of how it is possible to combine tradition and innovation, creating a work environment that is also a place for living and growing.