In recent years, employee well-being has become a strategic priority for companies around the world. In some markets, this movement has given rise to a new executive position: the Chief Happiness Officer (CHO), responsible for promoting a healthier, more productive, and satisfying work environment. But does this trend make sense for Brazil?
The concept of CHO emerged in large corporations abroad, especially in tech companies and startups, which realized that happiness at work directly impacts talent retention, engagement, and consequently, results. The professional works on implementing quality-of-life policies, mental and emotional well-being initiatives, organizational culture, and even benefits that enhance employee satisfaction.
According to ABRH-SP, the growing appreciation for corporate well-being in Brazil indicates that this trend could gain momentum here. “Brazilian companies are increasingly aware of the importance of the work environment in productivity and talent attraction. However, creating a specific position for this role is still a topic of debate,” says Eliane Aere, President of ABRH-SP.
In Brazil, many companies already invest in strategies for employee well-being, but the role of Chief Happiness Officer is not yet widely adopted. For the most part, initiatives are tied to areas such as HR, organizational culture, and corporate health, with programs focused on work-life balance, more flexible work schedules, mental health benefits, and decompression spaces.
For the president, the challenge lies in adapting this concept to the Brazilian reality. “Each company needs to assess its culture and needs before creating a position like the CHO. In many cases, it may make more sense to strengthen the HR department with professionals focused on employee well-being,” adds Aere.
Regardless of the nomenclature, the trend of prioritizing corporate well-being is a reality. With increasing market competitiveness and the new generation of professionals demanding more work-life balance, companies that invest in organizational happiness may gain a significant advantage.
