HR Executives Need a Review of Their Handbook

It seems some HR executives might want to revisit their company handbook. Recent events have revealed a vice president of a corporate HR department involved in an embarrassing situation, caught on a “Kiss Cam” during a Coldplay concert.

Alyssa Stoddard, the VP of Human Resources at Astronomers, was visibly uncomfortable as footage showed her attempting to hide her face when she was caught on the Jumbotron at a show in Foxboro, Massachusetts.

While the post doesn’t overtly name Stoddard, she has recently been promoted by HR chief Christine Cabot, who shared announcements about Stoddard on social media.

Stoddard has a notable professional history, having worked closely with Cabot across several companies over the years. Recently, she was appointed to this prominent role in the technology and data sector just five months after taking on the position of head of People Management and Strategy.

In a LinkedIn announcement, Cabot expressed pride in Stoddard’s promotion, emphasizing her blend of empathy, excellent operational execution, and integrity. “Every time she steps into a new role, she doesn’t just add value; she enriches the entire team,” Cabot noted.

Stoddard’s initial hiring was celebrated, but now her connection to the scandal has raised eyebrows, with some making critical remarks online about her situation. Observers have pointed out the irony of being heralded as a leader in managing strategy while facing scrutiny over personal conduct.

When the camera captured Cabot and CEO Andy Byron together at the concert, they, too, tried to duck out of sight. Frontman Chris Martin jokingly commented on the awkwardness of the moment, speculating about the nature of their relationship and hoping they weren’t caught in any wrongdoing.