Chief People Officer Focus for 2026 Agenda

This document is a guide outlining the evolving role of Chief People Officers (CPOs) as they prepare for 2026. It presents insights from a survey of nearly 75 leading CPOs who indicate that traditional HR functions are no longer sufficient for success. The guide emphasizes the need for CPOs to transition into enterprise CPOs, who not only manage HR operations but also influence core business strategies and financial outcomes. The text details four key priorities for CPOs: enhancing personal effectiveness, designing a modern HR function, prioritizing senior-leader and CEO succession, and embracing an AI-enabled workforce. It discusses the importance of courage in decision-making and the necessity for CPOs to engage with CEOs and boards on enterprise-level priorities. The guide also highlights the need for CPOs to redefine HR metrics to better reflect their strategic impact on the organization, moving beyond traditional evaluations to metrics that align with business outcomes.