The HR function is no longer an organizational support system—it’s a strategic engine powered by data, driven by empathy and amplified by technology. As work continues to evolve, a cadre of leaders is emerging at the intersection of people and innovation. They are redefining what it means to support the workforce—not just with policies, but with purpose, platforms and predictive insight.
These are the HR Tech Influencers. Click here to meet the Top 100 now.
The most impactful pros are recognized annually in HR Executive‘s HR Tech Influencers list, now in its seventh year. This is more than a list—it reflects a discipline in transformation. HR isn’t just keeping up with the future of work. It’s building it.
What sets this group apart isn’t just their titles or companies—it’s their impact. They are chief people officers using AI to personalize employee journeys, data scientists transforming DEI strategies with predictive analytics and advisors helping organizations navigate ethical concerns in AI adoption.
From driving cultural change at scale to engineering new tools for workforce resilience, their work reflects a deep understanding: that great businesses are built on great people—and great people thrive with the right tools and vision behind them.
Several key themes shape the HR Tech Influencers list in 2025:
- Tech is not the future—it’s the present. AI, automation and predictive analytics are embedded in day-to-day HR practices. The challenge now is how to implement them ethically and at scale.
- Culture is strategy. Influencers are proving that inclusive, people-centered cultures are not just nice-to-haves—they are key to innovation, retention and brand strength.
- Data is a leadership tool. From forecasting attrition to identifying equity gaps, data fluency is quickly becoming a core leadership competency in HR.
- Global is the default. Many of these influencers are shaping policies, practices and platforms that span countries and cultures, creating agile models that work anywhere.
The HR Tech Influencers span diverse roles: from chief people officers and founders to consultants and analysts. They enhance employee experience, foster inclusive cultures, leverage technology and AI, drive strategic initiatives and provide thought leadership across the industry.
This year’s list features both established and emerging voices. Standouts include Lucy Adams challenging conventional HR practices at Disruptive HR, Amy Coleman empowering over 220,000 employees at Microsoft, author and speaker Serena Huang helping organizations revolutionize diversity through data and AI, and Ronni Zehavi advising on cybersecurity at Hibob.
Key trends emerging from this year’s influencers include:
Focus on people and culture
Many influencers are dedicated to enhancing the employee experience and building inclusive, engaging workplace cultures.
- Teuila Hanson (LinkedIn) is a chief people officer dedicated to improving employee experience and workplace culture
- Monique Herena (American Express) serves as chief colleague experience officer, emphasizing workplace journeys
Emphasis on diversity, equity and inclusion
DEI remains a significant focus, reflecting a broader push toward more inclusive workplaces.
- Torin Ellis is a renowned DEI expert and thought leader
- Erika Broadwater (The Horizon Group) utilizes market data for a more culturally inclusive workplace
Integration of technology and AI
The use of tech and AI to enhance HR practices is a consistent theme.
- Chris Fernandez (Microsoft) leads AI transformation efforts in HR
- Jacqui Canney (ServiceNow) combines her people officer role with her duties as AI enablement officer
Leadership and strategic vision
Influencers often hold strategic leadership roles, driving innovation and transformation.
- Yolanda Seals-Coffield (PwC) launched My+, PwC’s biggest reimagination of its people experience
- Al Dea explores the future of work through his consulting firm and podcast
Data-driven decision-making
Influencers frequently use analytics to guide HR strategy.
- Alexis Fink is a speaker, coach, author and global leader in people analytics
- Emily Rose McRae (Gartner) focuses on workforce transformation through data
Thought leadership and public speaking
Many influencers contribute to the field through speaking engagements and publications.
- Josh Bersin is a highly respected industry analyst and speaker
- Joey Price is an author, thought leader, analyst and CEO of Jumpstart HR
Innovation in HR practices
These influencers introduce new technologies, methods and cultural strategies.
- Chris Havrilla (Oracle) develops HR technologies to streamline processes and enhance employee experiences
- Bo Vialle-Derksen (SyngularEdge) reimagines traditional HR models
Global influence
Several influencers operate at a global level, shaping HR practices across borders.
- J. Ofori Agboka (Amazon) oversees global operations
- Jennifer Morgan (UKG) leads a global HR tech enterprise
Click here to meet the Top 100 now.
Register now for HR Tech 2025 to hear from many of these leading voices, including keynote speakers Josh Bersin and Nickle LaMoreaux, plus several Mega Session speakers.
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