How Octapharma Uses Chess Strategy to Build Plasma Teams

Octapharma Plasma operates donor centers nationwide, supplying critical plasma used in treatments that impact patients daily. Leading the talent strategy behind this essential work is Monte Garrett, Director of Talent Acquisition. His leadership philosophy is founded on a framework he mastered as a teenager: the strategic discipline of chess. Monte's mentor taught him to approach every business challenge like a position on the chessboard, requiring deep anticipation, measured discipline, and constant adjustment.

In this episode of Talent All Stars, Monte shares how this viewpoint shapes their approach to hiring, workforce planning, and managing organizational change. He explains why Talent Acquisition must evolve into a consultative discipline, using data to challenge assumptions and guide the business with authority.  

You’ll learn:

• How chess principles enable Octapharma Plasma to strategically plan hiring needs and respond to industry shifts.
• Why constant adaptation is essential to avoid stagnation in a dynamic business environment.
• How Monte teaches recruiters to become data-driven advisors who influence key business decisions.
• The simple steps interviewers can take to improve candidate comfort and facilitate authentic conversations.

Connect with Monte Garrett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/montegarrett/

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