28 Top HR Influencers to Inspire You in 2026
Looking to elevate your HR game? Following the right influencers can be a source of inspiration for you and your team. Whether you're seeking creative solutions, mentorship, or career growth tips, aligning with the right voices can provide fresh perspectives and actionable insights.
In this article, I'll highlight the top HR influencers to follow. My aim is to connect you with HR professionals who resonate with your aspirations and challenges, whether you’re an HR manager, strategist, or stuck in the trenches of HR admin and looking for a way out!
Best HR Influencers of 2026
Now, let's explore how these influencers can support your professional development journey.
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David Rice
David Rice is Executive Editor at People Managing People. He’s spent the last five years covering the seismic shifts in HR—from the rise of remote work during the pandemic to the evolving…
Tim Fisher
Tim Fisher is VP of AI at Black and White Zebra. With more than two decades at the intersection of technology, editorial, and AI innovation, he’s led transformative initiatives that bridge content…
Brigette Hyacinth
Brigette Hyacinth is an international keynote speaker, bestselling author and thought leader specializing in leadership, human resources, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation. She has authored five books, including The Future of Leadership:…
Stacia Garr
Stacia Garr is a co-founder and principal analyst at RedThread Research, specializing in the intersection of people strategy, technology, and organizational performance. She is known for her research on how AI, automation,…
Josh Bersin
Josh Bersin is a global industry analyst, founder, and thought leader focused on HR transformation, workforce technology, and the impact of AI on the workplace. As the CEO of The Josh Bersin…
Jamie Jackson
Jamie Jackson is an HR leader, content creator, and the force behind Humorous Resources, where she blends workplace insights with humor. With over two decades in HR, she has worked across multiple…
Ravin Jesuthasan
Ravin Jesuthasan is a global thought leader on the future of work, with a focus on how organizations redesign jobs, skills, and operating models in response to AI. He has advised major…
Steve Boese
Steve Boese is a renowned HR consultant associated with H3 HR Advisors. He co-chairs the HR Technology Conference and contributes to Human Resource Executive magazine. Boese is also the creator and co-host…
Julie Mahfouz Rezvani
Julie Mahfouz Rezvani is the Managing Director of The Orion Group, specializing in people strategy and organizational effectiveness. She is recognized for helping organizations strengthen operating performance through leadership alignment, workforce capability,…
Meghan Biro
Meghan Biro is the Founder and CEO of TalentCulture, a platform dedicated to workplace innovation and talent strategies. She has worked with major brands like Microsoft, IBM, and Google to refine HR…
Hung Lee
Hung Lee is the Founder and Curator of Recruiting Brainfood, one of the most influential communities in talent acquisition. He is widely recognized for elevating the recruiting ecosystem through publishing, commentary, and…
William Tincup
William Tincup is the President and Editor-at-Large of RecruitingDaily, specializing in the intersection of HR and technology. He is a seasoned writer, speaker, advisor, consultant, investor, and educator with a rich background…
Ashley Herd
Ashley Herd is the founder of Manager Method®, where she leverages her extensive background as a lawyer and HR executive to provide practical training for managers and employees. Her career includes roles…
Madeline Laurano
Madeline Laurano is the Founder of Aptitude Research, specializing in talent technology, hiring systems, and workforce innovation. She is recognized for producing practitioner-focused research that helps HR leaders make better decisions on…
David Green
David Green is a notable leader in People Analytics, co-author of Excellence in People Analytics, and the Executive Director at Insight222 and myHRfuture.com. He’s an experienced conference speaker and hosts the Digital…
Leigh Elena Henderson
Leigh Elena Henderson is an HR executive at StandardAero and the Creator of HR Manifesto, a platform that utilizes humor to address workplace issues. With nearly 20 years of experience in Corporate…
Cole Napper
Cole Napper is a people analytics leader with over a decade of experience in HR strategy, data-driven decision-making, and organizational development. He has worked with major companies like Texas Instruments, Toyota, and…
Katrina Kibben
Katrina Kibben is the Founder of Three Ears Media, specializing in job content strategy and inclusive hiring communication. She is widely recognized for helping employers improve how they attract and engage talent…
Nathan Tanner
Nathan Tanner is an Executive Coach known for his work with high-impact leaders, including CEOs and founders. He previously served as the VP of People at Neighbor, an a16z-backed startup, and was…
Chris Williams
Chris Williams, known as CLWill, is a seasoned leader with over 40 years of experience in team building and leadership across Fortune 100 companies, startups, and non-profits. Notably, he served as Vice…
Brian Elliott
Brian Elliott is the CEO of Work Forward and an influential figure in the future of work. With over 25 years of leadership experience at companies like Google and Slack, he’s a…
Greg Hawks
Greg Hawks is a prominent figure at Hawks Agency, known for his expertise in fostering an “Ownership Culture” within organizations. He is recognized for his engaging presentation style, making him a sought-after…
Darren Murph
Darren Murph is the Senior Director of Cloud HQ Experience at Zillow, where he specializes in remote work and organizational design. Known as an expert in the field, he was previously the…
Ben Eubanks
Ben Eubanks is the Chief Research Officer at Lighthouse Research & Advisory, bringing over a decade of experience as an HR executive and researcher. He authored Artificial Intelligence for HR, a leading…
Jan Tegze
Jan Tegze is a talent acquisition expert, author, and speaker with years of experience in recruiting and hiring strategy. He has led initiatives for global HR companies, helping them build high-performing teams…
Christopher Rainey
Christopher Rainey is the Co-founder and CEO of HR Leaders, a digital media platform and community shaping the future of work. He hosts the HR Leaders Podcast, engaging with top HR executives…
Enrique Rubio
Enrique Rubio is an HR, technology, and future-of-work expert, as well as a keynote speaker. He is the Founder of Hacking HR, a global learning community that explores the intersection of the…
Anthony Onesto
Anthony Onesto is a prominent figure in the HR industry, renowned for his expertise in Generation Z and HR technology. He currently serves as the Chief People Officer at Suzy, where he…
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