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HR Tech Outlook announces the 2025 HR Leaders Awards, a tribute to professionals who are driving change and innovation in the HR landscape. These leaders stand out for their ability to craft forward-looking talent strategies, harness technology to optimize workforce management, and nurture cultures rooted in growth and inclusion. Their vision for digital transformation, combined with a deep understanding of workforce needs, is setting a higher benchmark for HR leadership in the modern era.
Head of Human Resources, Octapharma Plasma
Darrell Fincher-Crusan, head of human resources at Octapharma Plasma, brings a multidimensional strategy to HR leadership, grounded in deep business fluency and people-centered execution. With more than twenty years of experience across operations, finance, marketing, and compliance, he has made a values-driven shift into senior HR roles at Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Sunlight Financial, and now Octapharma Plasma, where he leads with authenticity, data-informed insight, and a strong connection to mission.
Senior Director Human Resources, Kellanova [NYSE: K]
Wheaton is an experienced HR executive with expertise in various industries, such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices and consumer packaged goods. At Kellanova, she creates and delivers the frozen food category's end-to-end talent strategy.
Chief Human Resources Officer, Senior Vice President of Human Resources, Churchill Downs Incorporated [NASDAQ: CHDN]
In the ever-evolving landscape of business, HR transformation has emerged as a critical element for organizations to remain competitive and responsive to the dynamic needs of the workforce.
Human Resources Director, Sprouts Farmers Market [NASDAQ: SFM]
An executive with expertise in human resources, restaurant and retail management, having over 2 decades of retail experience. She adopts strategies for talent development through collaboration and open communication with employees across the organizational structure.
SVP, Chief Human Resources Officer, Aflac [NYSE: AFL]
Jeri Hawthorne joined Ascensus as Chief Human Resources Officer in August 2025, bringing a wealth of experience from her previous role as CHRO at Aflac. She will lead talent strategy and cultural transformation during a pivotal time for the company.
Human Resources Director, CBRE [NYSE: CBRE]
Julie Richey is the Human Resources Manager at CBRE in Seattle. She holds a PHR certification from the Society of Human Resource Management and has served four years in the United States Navy. Julie also completed two years of studies at City University, focusing on HR management.
Human Resources Director, Sysco
Yolanda K. is an adaptable HR leader with over 15 years of experience across banking, automotive, manufacturing, retail, and healthcare industries. Currently HR Director at Sysco, she specializes in employee relations, labor negotiations, recruitment, and operational leadership driving business and cultural turnarounds.
Vice President, Human Resources, BJ's Wholesale Club
Nichole Larracey is Vice President and Head of Talent Acquisition at BJ's Wholesale Club. She has extensive experience in talent acquisition, recruitment strategy, and leadership development, driving hiring and workforce planning in the retail industry since 2012.
Vice President Human Resources, Acushnet Company
Sean Cleary is a partner and Security Practice Lead at Riviera Partners since July 2024, specializing in executive recruiting for cybersecurity roles. He has extensive experience placing CISO and security leadership talent for leading tech and venture-backed companies worldwide.
SVP, Human Resources, Otis Elevator
Will Waller is currently Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Otis Elevator Company. He brings over 20 years of HR leadership experience and is known for his expertise in leadership development, culture building, and overcoming adversity. Will also works as a keynote speaker and previously served as CEO of the National Wheelchair Basketball Association.
