Some leaders inspire through big speeches.
Others are inspired by the way they show up every day.
For Tamsin Jatho, HR Manager at SurTech, leadership has never bseen about policies or processes – it’s about people. Throughout her career, she has built a reputation for leading with empathy, integrity and calmness, creating an environment where employees feel supported, valued and empowered to succeed.
As part of our Women’s Month campaign, Behind Every Great Leader Is a Story, we sat down with Tamsin to talk about her career, the lessons she’s learned along the way and what leadership means to her.
You can either watch the interview video – or read the full blog post below:
Looking back at the start of your career, what advice would you give your younger self?
Tamsin:
“I don’t think I would have changed anything, and there’s actually a reason for that. Every decision I made led me to the right path in the long run. Looking back now, I’m proud of the choices my younger self made. I could easily have made different decisions, but I made the right ones, and they’ve brought me to where I am today. So, honestly, I don’t think I’d give my younger self any advice.”
A recurring theme throughout our conversation was trust—trusting your decisions, trusting the journey, and recognising that growth often only makes sense when you look back.
Finish this sentence: “The woman I am today is…”
Tamsin:
“Stronger than I ever thought I was. I’m more mature, and I’ve learned to stay calm, even in difficult situations. Earlier in my career, I probably wouldn’t have handled challenges the same way, but today I can remain composed and focus on what needs to be done. That ability to stay calm has become one of my greatest strengths.”
People often think HR is about policies. What do you believe HR is really about?
Tamsin:
“For me, HR has always been about people. Yes, policies are important. They provide structure and help everyone understand the framework they work within.
But policies don’t build a company—people do. The most important part of HR is understanding people, supporting them, and helping them succeed. That’s what makes business work.”
It was clear throughout the interview that this isn’t simply something Tamsin says—it’s the philosophy she leads every day.
What’s one conversation you’ve had during your career that had a lasting impact on your leadership style?
Tamsin:
“I’ve worked with Phil for almost ten years, and we’ve had many conversations that have shaped how I lead.
One lesson that has stayed with me is that there are some things you simply can’t change. He taught me not to become consumed by situations outside of my control. Instead, accept what can’t be changed, focus on what can, and move forward.That mindset has helped me stay calmer in situations that would previously have upset me.”
When did you realise HR was exactly where you wanted to be?
Tamsin:
“In 2023 I made the decision to stop consulting and focus on HR full-time. Before that, I divided my time between SurTech and consulting, but over those years, I realised how much I genuinely loved this role. As the business continued to grow, I knew I couldn’t give it everything it needed while splitting my focus. That’s when I realised I wanted to dedicate myself completely to HR.”
A Surprise from Your Team
As part of this Women’s Month celebration, we asked a few of Tamsin’s colleagues to describe what it’s like working with her. She had no idea these messages had been collected.
Natascha Heyman
“After 22 years in corporate, Tamsin, you are the first HR Manager who has truly inspired me. Your expertise, work ethic and genuine care for people make a remarkable difference to our company.”
Tamsin’s reaction: “Shame… that’s very sweet. It makes me feel emotional.”
Andrea Thies
“Tamsin is an exceptional leader and an inspiring woman. She always offers support and encouragement, genuinely believes in the goodness of people and inspires others to become the very best they can be.”
Tamsin’s reaction: “That’s awesome. That’s very kind of her.”
Thabi Masuhlo
“Tamsin leads with integrity, empathy and a sincere commitment to helping others grow. She reminds us that leadership isn’t measured only by results, but by the positive impact we have on others.”
Tamsin’s reaction: “Oh, he’s amazing. Thanks, Tabs.”
More Than Human Resources
After spending time with Tamsin, one thing becomes abundantly clear.
She doesn’t see HR as a department.
She sees it as a responsibility to help people become the best version of themselves.
Whether she’s supporting someone through a difficult conversation, helping leaders build stronger teams, or simply reminding people that they matter, her leadership is grounded in empathy, trust and genuine care.
Perhaps that’s why the words her colleagues used most often weren’t “HR Manager.”
They were kind, calm, trusted, supportive, and inspiring.
And that may be the greatest measure of leadership of all.
Happy Women’s Month
At SurTech, we’re proud to celebrate the remarkable women whose leadership strengthens our business every day.
Because behind every great leader is a story worth telling—and every story has the power to inspire.
