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 assembled to guide a major research initiative and virtual event centered on HR analytics. As HR leaders face growing pressure to connect workforce strategy to measurable business outcomes, the advisory board will provide expert guidance on using people data to make smarter, more equitable, and actionable decisions.
Composed of practitioners, analytics specialists, and HR veterans, the board will shape research and practical insights to help HR teams address skills gaps, evolving technology, and complex organizational demands. The board's work will directly inform an upcoming study and the HR.com's State of People Analytics 2026 Virtual Event on June 17, 2026, designed to equip HR professionals with frameworks, tools, and strategies to integrate analytics into daily operations, culture, and strategic planning.
With a special focus on AI-enabled solutions, the advisory board aims to provide expertise that helps organizations harness data to drive results, enhance workforce performance, and support inclusive, evidence-based decision-making. The board includes distinguished experts such as Ranjan Dutta of ThothProAI, Helen Friedman of Merit Analytics Group, 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.
"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." The HR Research Institute releases annual "State of the Industry" reports, including the past research report, HR.com's State of People Analytics 2025-26, available for download alongside other free resources.
This initiative is important because it addresses the critical need for HR professionals to adapt to data-driven environments, where analytics and AI are increasingly vital for strategic decision-making. By providing expert-led guidance, the advisory board helps organizations navigate technological advancements, reduce biases through equitable practices, and improve workforce outcomes, ultimately impacting business performance and employee well-being across industries.
