AI, Culture, and Leading with Heart: Key Takeaways from NAHRES 2026

The quality of content at the North American HR Executive Summit (NAHRES) this week was exceptional. Several takeaways regarding the intersection of AI, culture, and leadership are staying with me as I reflect on our work at C-Suite Coach. Additionally, it was inspiring to see that so many leaders from amazing companies are championing their people and while leading strategically, are also leading with heart. Both are possible. 

On the AI-Human Partnership

The dialogue has shifted from simple automation to strategic integration. Tracey Franklin challenged us to identify where the human is absolutely essential and where AI cannot be the decision-maker. This was reinforced by Shannon Ruotolo, who suggested we leverage AI as a thought partner and optimizer rather than focusing solely on an automation mindset. Rosemarie Diegnan stressed that AI is the new workforce, requiring us to strategically define which elements of a role need to remain human.

On Communication and Culture

Effective leadership requires radical transparency and persistence. James Neal reminded us that employees see through "HR language"; transparency is required even when the news—like a marginal raise—is not a win. And Vanessa Sandoval shared that leaders need to admit when they don’t get it right and then make it right. 

On Skills and Performance

Steve Pemberton of Seramount gave a powerful presentation that wow-ed us, arguing for a shift from rigid job architectures toward open talent marketplaces. To achieve this, he shared companies should be reshaping how they look at mobility, for example including more micro-rotations and job simulations and distributing upskilling through peer-to-peer learning. (Sidenote: post presentation we learned a bit about his extraordinary life story and how it shapes his leadership views).

On the Leadership Gap

A recurring theme was the distinction between technical proficiency and people leadership. Sean Baptiste discussed the ways his innovative approach to creating a healthy workforce has improved the work they do. In addition to this holistic approach to looking at employee engagement, he also championed coaching for talent to help people embrace the vulnerability required especially in this moment of disruption.

At C-Suite Coach, we recognize that as organizations manage the bot, they must not neglect the leader. Technical expertise is no longer enough; the next level of the professional journey requires the shared judgment and human connection that AI cannot replicate.

I am leaving NAHRES energized by these insights and ready to help our partners bridge these gaps. Thank you to Fuquan Collins, Augusta Kilpatrick-Fulcher and Lisa Moving for bringing me on board this week.