Grounded in insights from the Heidrick & Struggles CPO Summit, this article shows how the best leaders create clarity amid enduring uncertainty. The CPO’s influence is rising as AI transforms work, and success now depends on fair AI adoption, strong succession pipelines, and performance-focused hybrid work cultures.

Char Doll shares how grit, growth mindset, and a focus on aligning people strategy with business goals have guided her in building on HR’s strengths to elevate leadership, enhance employee experience, and drive lasting impact.

CPOs say their functions are, on the whole, moderately successful at both traditional HR activities and having strategic influence, according to a recent survey and insights from leading CPOs in markets around the world. The research suggests a few priorities for focus as CPOs reshape their functions for the future.

Analysis of Fortune 1000 CPOs indicates that both the role and profile of HR leaders are evolving quickly.