Carolina HR Summit & Awards 2026
About this Event
About the Event
Welcome to the Carolina HR Summit & Awards, proudly hosted by Search Solution Group in partnership with Business North Carolina. Each year, this premier event brings together HR professionals and business leaders to discuss the challenges, opportunities, and trends shaping today's workforce.
The evening features a keynote presentation, a featured segment, and a moderated panel discussion with senior HR executives from leading organizations, followed by the Carolina HR Standout Awards recognizing outstanding HR professionals and organizations making an impact across the Carolinas.
Attendees are eligible to earn SHRM Professional Development Credits (PDCs) through participation in the event. Activity Name: Carolina HR Summit & Awards 2026 • Activity ID: 26-S3RY9.
Last year's event welcomed more than 250 attendees, making it one of the largest gatherings of HR leaders in the region. Join us on October 19, 2026, at the historic Carolina Theatre in Charlotte for an evening of learning, networking, and celebration.
2026 Theme: Empowering HR for What's Next
How HR Leaders Are Driving Business Growth in a Changing World
As organizations navigate workforce transformation, evolving employee expectations, artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and economic uncertainty, HR has become one of the most influential drivers of business success. Today's HR leaders are shaping talent strategies, developing future leaders, strengthening workplace cultures, leveraging new technologies, and helping organizations adapt to constant change.
This year's Carolina HR Summit & Awards will explore how HR professionals are preparing their organizations for what's next while driving growth, performance, and long-term success. Through expert insights, real-world experiences, and meaningful discussions, attendees will gain practical perspectives on topics such as AI in the workplace, leadership development, workforce planning, organizational change, talent strategy, and the evolving role of HR as a strategic business partner.
Join us on Monday, October 19, 2026, at the historic Carolina Theatre in Charlotte for an evening of learning, connection, and celebration as we recognize the people shaping the future of HR.
Carolina HR Standout Awards
The Carolina HR Standout Awards recognize the HR professionals making a meaningful impact across the Carolinas. Honoring excellence in leadership, innovation, talent strategy, culture, and organizational success, the awards celebrate individuals and teams who are helping shape the future of HR.
Award winners will be recognized live during the Carolina HR Summit & Awards in front of peers, colleagues, and business leaders from across the region.
Nominate an Outstanding HR Professional
Know an HR leader who deserves to be recognized? Nominations are now open for the 2026 Carolina HR Standout Awards. Nominate here.
Featured Speakers
Keynote
Speaker to be announced
Featured Educational Session
"Imposter Syndrome: A Misdiagnosis"
Explore the misconceptions surrounding imposter syndrome and gain practical insights into building confidence, developing leaders, and supporting employee growth in today's workplace.
Executive Panel
Hear from senior HR leaders representing some of today's most recognized organizations as they discuss the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of work.
Moderator
- Kisha Smith – Chief People Officer, Tepper Sports & Entertainment
Panelists
- Seb Girard – Chief People Officer, Novant Health
- Julie Katigan – Chief Human Resources Officer, Perdue Farms
- Craig Pyke – Head of Talent Acquisition, Rivian
- Anna Orsenigo – Senior Vice President, HR Business Partner, LPL Financial
Event Details
Date: Monday, October 19, 2026
Time: 5:15 PM – 8:30 PM (Doors Open at 5 PM)
Location: The Carolina Theatre | Charlotte, NC
Dress Code: Business Professional
Attendance is limited, and advance registration is encouraged. Reserve your spot today to join HR leaders from across the Carolinas for an evening of learning, networking, and recognition.
Agenda
🕑: 05:15 PM - 06:15 PM
Networking & Reception
Info: Connect with HR and business leaders from across the Carolinas while enjoying drinks and heavy hors d'oeuvres before the evening's program begins.
🕑: 06:15 PM - 06:20 PM
Welcome Remarks
Info: Opening remarks from Search Solution Group.
🕑: 06:20 PM - 06:35 PM
Keynote Presentation
Info: A brief keynote presentation setting the stage for the evening's conversation.
🕑: 06:35 PM - 06:50 PM
Featured Segment: "Imposter Syndrome: A Misdiagnosis"
Info: Presented by Jessica Bronzert, Founder & CEO of SparksGRP
This featured segment explores imposter syndrome: what it is, what it is not, and how leaders can respond to it more effectively. The session will debunk common myths, including its perceived ties to gender and personality, while highlighting how imposter feelings can often reflect systemic or environmental factors. Attendees will gain a more empowering perspective and actionable tools to navigate self-doubt with greater awareness and confidence.
🕑: 06:50 PM - 07:50 PM
Executive HR Leadership Panel Discussion + Q&A
Info: A moderated discussion and audience Q&A featuring senior HR executives sharing real-world perspectives on leadership, workforce strategy, talent, organizational change, and business growth.
🕑: 07:50 PM - 08:20 PM
Carolina HR Standout Awards
Info: Celebrating outstanding HR professionals and organizations making a meaningful impact across the Carolinas.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
