Celebrating the Bold HR Leaders of Today 

For most of my career, many HR leaders thought of themselves as “behind the scenes.” It  was the department that sprung into action when someone was hired, promoted, or let go. They thought of themselves as more “defense” and less “offense.” They handled benefits, wrote policies, and kept the company out of trouble.  

Now, that’s definitely changed. The HR leaders Good Leadership works with today are thinking about leading the business, not just serving the business. They are playing offense to hire, retain, and equip the best people so the business can effectively compete.

HR THRIVE Awards 

So, it’s time to celebrate the HR leaders who are role modeling good leadership for the business! In partnership with Twin Cities Business, and Gallagher, May 6, 2025 we will host the HR THRIVE Awards in Minneapolis, MN. 

“It used to be that HR had the keys to the bus,” commented Shawn Moren, Executive Partner at Gartner’s CHRO Practice​. “Now, in the modern context HR leaders are driving the bus. It’s a golden moment for HR leaders. This award program is long overdue.” 

What will be celebrated? 

At the heart of the HR THRIVE Awards is one simple idea: HR leadership is business leadership. These awards were created to spotlight the bold, forward-thinking HR professionals who are reshaping the business, through the people who carry out the business.  

We’re celebrating the leaders who are no longer just “keeping the bus on the road”—they’re driving the bus forward with purpose.  

Here’s what will be honored: 

• NextGen HR Leaders – honoring those early in their careers who are already making a powerful impact. 

• Empower HR – honoring leaders who elevate others and multiply goodness through mentorship and advocacy. 

• HR Innovator Award – honoring professionals using technology to spark momentum and efficiency. 

• Good Leadership Award – honoring HR executives shaping strategy, culture, and results. 

These categories reflect a growing truth in business today: when HR thrives, the whole organization wins. 

How you can help:  

Here’s my challenge to every leader reading this: who in your organization is shaping culture, aligning people strategy with business goals, and creating environments where accountability and goodness go hand in hand? 

You can nominate them here for the HR THRIVE Awards. Let’s elevate the leaders who are helping our organizations succeed from the inside out.