Carolina HR Summit & Awards 2026

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

Attendance Policy

The Carolina HR Summit & Awards is intended primarily for HR professionals across all levels of their careers, from emerging HR professionals to senior HR executives. Business leaders with responsibility for HR and people strategy are also welcome to attend.

To preserve a peer-to-peer learning and networking environment, the event organizers reserve the right to review and decline registrations that are not aligned with the purpose of the event.

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.