The HR Research Institute has announced the formation of the 2026 Managing and Leading Performance Advisory Board, assembling industry leaders, HR practitioners, and performance management experts to direct research and events aimed at enhancing employee, team, and organizational performance. This initiative responds to organizations increasingly prioritizing performance outcomes, with the board set to provide guidance on evolving performance management and leadership practices.
The advisory board will focus on leveraging artificial intelligence, data analytics, and streamlined processes to optimize results, while also examining the behaviors and mindsets that drive high performance. Debbie McGrath, CEO of HR.com, emphasized that "performance management isn't just a process; it's how organizations thrive," highlighting the board's mission to help HR professionals implement modern strategies and technology to improve performance reviews, foster employee growth, and drive business outcomes.
The newly formed board features distinguished experts including Lauren Bidwell, Ph.D., Senior Research Scientist at SAP SuccessFactors; Amanda Busfield, Senior Organizational Development Partner; Catarina Edlund, HR Specialist at UN Women; Lena Finch, Vice President of People & Culture at Allego; Craig Friedman, Sr. Talent Advisor at St. Charles Consulting Group; Edie Goldberg, President & Founder of E.L. Goldberg & Associates; Kiara Graham, Sr. Talent Management Advisor at Workleap; Kimberly Hodge, Talent Development Manager at MWM DesignGroup; Andrew Lane, Director at George Mason University; Melissa Phillippi, VP at Highspring; and Robrette Vaden, Human Resources Specialist at DC Courts.
This advisory board will contribute to the HR Research Institute's ongoing research initiatives, including the annual "State of the Industry" reports that cover various HR topics. Last year's research report, HR.com's Future of Managing and Leading Performance 2025, addressed similar themes, and this new board will help shape the 2026 edition. The Institute, which serves over 2 million HR professionals, publishes hundreds of high-quality reports based on surveys developed with input from advisory boards and thought leaders.
The formation of this advisory board has significant implications for HR professionals and organizations worldwide. As performance management evolves beyond traditional annual reviews, the guidance from these experts will help organizations implement more dynamic, data-driven approaches that align with modern workplace demands. The integration of AI and analytics into performance systems could revolutionize how employee development is tracked and supported, potentially leading to more personalized growth paths and improved retention rates.
For industry practitioners, this development signals a shift toward more strategic, technology-enhanced performance management systems that can provide real-time insights and predictive analytics. The board's work may influence how organizations measure success, develop leadership capabilities, and create cultures of continuous improvement. The HR Research Institute's research, including free reports and infographics available through their membership program, provides valuable resources for organizations seeking to implement evidence-based performance strategies. Those interested in contributing to future research can learn more about participation opportunities through the Institute's programs.
