HRPA's Annual CHRO Summit

CHRO Summit 2025: A Dynamic Exchange on Transformation 

HR Policy Association’s 57th Annual CHRO Summit brought together over 160 senior HR leaders—including nearly 25 CHROs stepping into new roles—for an engaging discussion on transformation in all its forms. From evolving technology and shifting federal policies to the strategic role of HR teams, the event provided a platform for candid conversations and peer collaboration.

Board Chair Tim Richmond set the stage with a call to “learn and use your peers as sounding boards,” emphasizing that “perpetual transformation is essential if we are to innovate, engage our workforce, and win in the marketplace.”

Key highlights included:

• A deep dive into the current challenges facing DEI and next steps for companies.
• A special discussion with The Home Depot’s CHRO Tim Hourigan and CEO Ted Decker on the value of the CEO-CHRO partnership.
• A thought-provoking keynote from author and commentator David Brooks, offering insights for people leaders from his latest book, How to Know a Person.

🔹 Access the full CHRO Summit digest for insights from all panels and sessions. (HRPA login required)

CHROs at the Helm: Leading Change, Owning the Boardroom

CHROs aren’t just supporting transformation—they’re driving it. In this powerful panel, top HR leaders laid out exactly how CHROs can take control in times of upheaval. Bank of America’s Sheri Bronstein revealed the brutal prioritization required to lead through crisis, while Merck’s Betty Larson underscored the CHRO’s role in setting the pace of change. PwC’s Anthony Abbatiello didn’t hold back—CHROs who master workforce signals, from talent pipelines to AI, become heroes in the boardroom. This session was a playbook for CHROs ready to step up and own their role as transformation leaders. Read the full recap here.

Ted Decker on the Keys to Leadership Success: What CHROs Need to Know

Home Depot CEO Ted Decker made one thing clear: the CHRO-CEO partnership isn’t optional—it’s a competitive advantage. As The Home Depot transformed from a traditional retailer to a digital-first, contractor-focused business, HR was at the center—hiring specialized talent, shaping culture, and driving strategy. Decker didn’t mince words: CEOs who aren’t fully leveraging their CHROs are missing a huge opportunity. From the impact of AI on talent to the future of vocational skills, this session delivered the unfiltered truth about what it takes to lead transformation. Read a summary and takeaways here.

The Human Side of Leadership: What CHROs Can’t Ignore

David Brooks delivered a keynote that hit home: intelligence and achievement alone don’t define success—human connection does. He traced how society’s obsession with intellect created an education-based caste system, fueling disconnection and isolation. But for CHROs, the takeaway was clear: workplaces must foster belonging, empathy, and true human skills. Brooks challenged leaders to be “illuminators,” not diminishers—lifting others up through presence, listening, and real connection. His message wasn’t just thought-provoking; it was a call to action for CHROs to redefine leadership in a way that truly values people. Read the full keynote digest.

Leading voices shaping the future of HR

Thank you to all who joined us for this incredible event! Top CHROs, thought leaders, and innovators at the forefront of HR and leadership shared insights and strategies to help attendees navigate today’s complex business landscape.