Top 3 Areas of Focus for CHROs in 2026

As we enter 2026, Chief Human Resources Officers (CHROs) are navigating a landscape shaped by both extraordinary challenges and new opportunities. The VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous) environment continues to impact the business world, demanding that HR leaders demonstrate greater agility, foresight, and resilience than ever before. At the same time, the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) is fundamentally transforming not only the future of work, but also the very role of HR.

CHROs are focused on balancing these dual forces – guiding their organizations through ongoing uncertainty while harnessing AI to drive strategic value. Within Gartner CHRO Communities, members are preparing to address these mission-critical priorities together at upcoming community events. Driven By CHROs, For CHROs®, executives are actively sharing their insights and experiences to inform the themes shaping our programs throughout the year.

Here, we explore the three key themes CHROs are expected to focus on in 2026.

1. Shaping the Human Impact of AI and Creating New Ways of Working

By 2026, AI is set to automate or manage half of all HR activities, challenging CHROs to reimagine the very foundation of the HR function. The opportunity for CHROs lies not only in adopting new technologies, but in strategically integrating AI to elevate the human experience at work. CHROs will play a pivotal role in upskilling their teams and guiding their organizations through the transition from transactional HR to a more strategic, value-driven approach. As generative AI redefines what’s possible, CHROs believe aligning AI investments with business objectives and evolving operating models will be essential to unlocking sustainable growth and empowering a future-ready workforce.

1. Developing Agile Leaders in a Dynamic Landscape

In today’s environment of constant volatility and uncertainty, agile leadership has become essential for organizational success. As one CHRO community member shared, “For 2026, we’re shifting from rigid planning to adaptive leadership. Our strategy needs to be resilient and responsive.”

Leadership development remains a top priority for CHROs, with a renewed focus on closing capability gaps in coaching, change management, and trust-building among both senior and emerging leaders. By prioritizing targeted, high-impact leadership development initiatives – leveraging technology, continuous learning, and advanced coaching practices – CHROs aim to build resilient leaders who thrive amid disruption and inspire confidence throughout the organization.
 

1. Reinvigorating Culture While Driving Innovation

CHROs are leveraging technology, agile methodologies, and skill-based rewards to foster a culture that encourages experimentation, learning, and psychological safety. By prioritizing continuous development and empowering employees to adapt and innovate, HR leaders strive to create workplaces that not only withstand rapid change but set the pace for it – ensuring their organizations remain competitive and positioned for long-term success.

For CHROs, the imperative to lead through complexity and harness the transformative power of AI has never been greater. CHROs have a unique opportunity to shape the future of work and drive meaningful change across their organizations.

With our 2026 community gatherings on the horizon, we look forward to bringing CHROs together to explore these critical themes and share actionable insights. If you are not yet a member of your local CHRO community, we encourage you to apply and join this dynamic network of HR leaders. Current members can sign in to register for upcoming community programs and continue to engage with peers on the issues that matter most.