Who's Moving up in HR Roles so Far in 2026

Why It Matters

These appointments signal heightened competition for seasoned HR talent and a strategic push to align people strategy with risk and innovation, shaping the broader human capital landscape for 2026.

Key Takeaways

• BDO appoints Kerry Atkinson as chief people officer
• Willem Olivier becomes BDO’s chief risk officer
• Sean Garbett joins The Human Collaborative as managing partner
• Dominic Price moves from Atlassian to Be Luminous as partner
• HR talent mobility spikes Q1 2026 across tech, advisory firms

Pulse Analysis

The first quarter of 2026 has become a bellwether for HR leadership mobility, as senior people‑and‑culture executives migrate between high‑growth technology firms and specialist advisory houses. This wave reflects a broader industry shift where organizations recognize that robust people strategies are as critical as product innovation. By attracting leaders with deep expertise in workforce design, data‑driven talent analytics, and cultural transformation, firms aim to future‑proof their operations against rapid market changes.

BDO’s dual appointments of Kerry Atkinson as chief people officer and Willem Olivier as chief risk officer illustrate a strategic convergence of human capital and risk management. Atkinson will steer BDO’s people strategy, focusing on employee experience, talent development, and inclusive culture, while Olivier’s risk oversight ensures governance aligns with those people initiatives. The synergy between these roles underscores a growing belief that employee well‑being and risk mitigation are interdependent pillars of sustainable growth, especially for professional services firms navigating complex regulatory environments.

Beyond BDO, the moves by The Human Collaborative and Be Luminous highlight a rising demand for HR leaders who can blend consultancy acumen with forward‑looking workforce insights. Sean Garbett’s transition to managing partner formalises a partnership that leverages his 25‑year global experience, positioning the firm to capture larger advisory contracts. Meanwhile, Dominic Price’s shift from Atlassian to a boutique advisory signals that even tech‑centric talent futurists are seeking platforms to influence broader industry practices. Collectively, these trends suggest that 2026 will see intensified competition for HR talent capable of driving both cultural agility and strategic risk alignment.