CHROs Take Center Stage in Business Strategy
As businesses prepare for the future, Canadian chief human resources officers (CHROs) are stepping into more prominent roles. A recent survey conducted by the International Workplace Group (IWG) reveals that a striking 86% of CHROs feel their influence has reached unprecedented levels. This shift reflects the growing importance of human resources in driving productivity, shaping talent strategies, and enhancing overall business performance as 2026 approaches.
The survey, which gathered insights from over 260 CHROs, highlights how the role has evolved to become integral to executive leadership. Notably, 80% of respondents reported closer collaboration with the C-suite than ever before. This deepened partnership underscores a significant pivot in executive focus, where recruitment, employee retention, and well-being are now top business priorities.
HR’s Strategic Value Recognized by CEOs
The findings indicate that CHROs are no longer confined to administrative or operational functions. Instead, they have become essential strategic partners. Nearly 89% of those surveyed consider themselves trusted advisors to their organization’s chief executive officer. Moreover, 96% asserted that their contributions have a direct and strong influence on profitability.
This elevated status reflects a broader recognition of HR’s role in aligning workforce capabilities with business goals. From talent acquisition to culture-building initiatives, CHROs are guiding organizations through complex challenges, including the evolving expectations of modern employees.
Flexible Work: A Critical Retention Tool
One of the most powerful tools in the CHRO arsenal continues to be flexible work arrangements. The survey revealed that 81% of CHROs see hybrid working as essential for retaining top-tier talent. Concerns over employee retention were evident, as 64% of respondents predicted a significant drop in retention rates if flexible work options were discontinued.
The advantages of flexibility extend beyond convenience. Nearly 78% of CHROs believe that requiring employees to endure daily long commutes would negatively impact morale and productivity. On the flip side, 71% of organizations that have adopted more flexible policies anticipate improvements in employee retention.
These insights suggest that flexibility is not just a perk, but a strategic imperative that directly affects workforce stability and satisfaction.
Productivity Gains Reinforce CHRO Impact
Supporting these findings, separate research from IWG shows that 74% of executives who offer flexible work models reported increased productivity in 2025. This trend reinforces the CHRO’s growing role in balancing the needs of employees with the organization’s performance metrics.
By championing flexible work policies, CHROs are demonstrating how employee well-being and business results can go hand in hand. This dual focus is helping organizations attract and retain skilled professionals while also driving operational success.
CHROs Embrace Expanded Leadership Role
As companies navigate a rapidly changing business environment, the CHRO’s responsibilities are expanding. From overseeing workforce transformation to influencing corporate culture, these leaders are positioning HR as a cornerstone of strategic planning.
“The modern CHRO is no longer just managing personnel—they are shaping the future of the organization,” said a representative from IWG. “Their insights are critical to achieving long-term success in today’s competitive landscape.”
Looking ahead to 2026, CHROs are expected to continue playing a pivotal role in steering organizations through ongoing economic, social, and technological disruptions. Their ability to align human capital with corporate objectives will be essential for sustainable growth.
Conclusion: HR at the Heart of Business Success
The IWG survey paints a clear picture of a transformative moment for human resources leadership. With greater influence, increased collaboration with the executive suite, and a data-backed case for flexible work, CHROs are becoming strategic architects of organizational success.
As businesses face new challenges and opportunities, the role of the CHRO is set to become even more critical. From fostering inclusive cultures to driving innovation through talent management, HR leaders are proving that their seat at the table is not only deserved but necessary for future readiness.
This article is inspired by content from Original Source. It has been rephrased for originality. Images are credited to the original source.
