The HR Research Institute has announced the formation of its 2026 State of People Analytics Advisory Board, a group of industry leaders and data experts tasked with guiding a major research initiative and virtual event focused on HR analytics. This development comes as HR leaders face increasing pressure to connect workforce strategy with measurable business outcomes.
The advisory board, composed of practitioners, analytics specialists, and HR veterans, will provide expert guidance on using people data to make smarter, more equitable, and actionable decisions. Their work will directly inform an upcoming study and a virtual event designed to equip HR professionals with frameworks and strategies to integrate analytics into daily operations, culture, and strategic planning. A special focus will be placed on AI-enabled solutions, with the board aiming to help organizations harness data to drive results, enhance performance, and support evidence-based decision-making.
The board's formation underscores the growing importance of data-driven HR in addressing critical issues like skills gaps, evolving technology, and complex organizational demands. By shaping research and practical insights, the initiative seeks to move HR analytics from a peripheral function to a core strategic driver. The virtual event, scheduled for June 17, 2026, will be a key output of this advisory work.
The distinguished experts on the board include Ranjan Dutta of ThothProAI, Helen Friedman of Merit Analytics Group LLC, Jeff Higgins of Lytiqs, Fiona Jamison of People Results, Mike Kidwell of Wells Fargo, Shane McGowan of S&S Activewear, Viktor Mirovic of KeenCorp, Adam Murphy of AMC Theatres, Miles Overholt of Strategia Analytics, Lisa Perez of HBL Resources, and Konstantin Tskhay of Tskhay & Associates, Inc.
"We're thrilled to unite HR and analytics experts to guide our upcoming research and virtual event," said Debbie McGrath, CEO of HR.com. "Their insights will empower the HR community to use data and AI-driven analytics to make smarter, fairer, and more effective workplace decisions." This initiative builds on the institute's previous work, including the HR.com's State of People Analytics 2025-26 report, which is available for download alongside other research.
For business and technology leaders, this news highlights the accelerating convergence of human resources and advanced analytics. The advisory board's focus on AI and equitable decision-making reflects broader industry trends toward ethical AI implementation and data-informed leadership. The research and frameworks developed could influence how organizations worldwide manage talent, predict workforce needs, and justify HR investments through tangible business metrics. As AI continues to transform workplace functions, initiatives like this provide a structured pathway for HR professionals to adopt these technologies responsibly and effectively, potentially setting new standards for workforce management across industries.
