HR isn’t just policies or payroll – it’s people. Your greatest asset and your greatest opportunity. It’s about creating a culture where strategy meets empathy, and every decision shapes the future of work.
Driving this change are HR influencers. These are the people asking the hard questions, challenging the outdated, and reimagining what it means to thrive – not just survive – in the workplace.
Why HR Influencers Matter Now More Than Ever
Because the workplace has never been more complex, and complexity demands visionaries. Remote work, AI, and shifting expectations aren’t just challenges; they’re opportunities to rethink how we work and lead.
HR influencers are showing us what leadership looks like in an AI-driven world, championing diversity in ways that matter, and proving one fundamental truth: no technology, tool, or algorithm can ever replace the power of a workplace that values its people.
Who is the Best HR Influencer?
That’s like asking, ‘Who’s the best Avenger?’ The truth is, it depends on the mission.
Do you need insights into the intersection of technology and people? Look to Josh Bersin, whose data-driven strategies are rewriting the playbook. Or maybe you want someone to challenge conventions and spark bold conversations – Suzanne Lucas, the ‘Evil HR Lady,’ doesn’t just speak the truth; she provokes the change we all need.
The point is, the best isn’t just one voice. Here are 30 incredible minds – each a master in their domain. They’re shaping how we think, act, and lead. Let’s take a look!
1. Adam Posner
Founder & President, NHP Talent Group; Co–Founder, Probably Nothing Talent; Host, The POZcast
Adam Posner is all about connecting talent with purpose. Through NHP Talent Group, he bridges the gap between creative ambition and technical precision, helping marketing and tech professionals find roles that push their potential.
His podcast, The POZcast, is where work, leadership, and culture intersect. Adam’s candid conversations with industry leaders go beyond the surface, offering sharp insights and meaningful takeaways for anyone serious about their career journey.
2. Amy Miller
Senior Recruiter, Amazon Project Kuiper; Blogger & YouTuber
With over two decades of experience, Amy Miller has built a reputation for her no-nonsense approach to recruitment. From sourcing truck drivers to assembling Amazon’s satellite teams, her expertise spans industries and roles.
Amy’s insights cut through the noise, offering a refreshing take on what works and what doesn’t in hiring. Her perspective is both grounded and insightful, making her a go-to voice for HR professionals navigating complex talent challenges.
3. Ben Eubanks
HR Tech Analyst, Bestselling Author and Speaker
Ben Eubanks has spent over a decade turning the chaos of HR tech into clarity. His knack for simplifying complex talent technologies helps companies make smarter decisions and vendors build solutions that work. Whether he’s analyzing trends or sharing insights on stage, Ben has a way of making HR tech feel less like a maze and more like a map.
4. Bill Banham
Editor, HR Gazette; Host, HRchat Podcast; Co-Founder, InnovateWork & DisruptHR London
Bill Banham is where HR’s big ideas meet action. As the editor of HR Gazette and host of the HRchat Podcast, he brings global leaders into focus, delivering insights that cut through the noise. His work doesn’t stop at conversations – Bill creates platforms like InnovateWork and DisruptHR London that spark collaboration and fresh thinking. From NASA to Salesforce, his interviews leave you rethinking what’s possible.
5. Carrie Corbin
Managing Partner and Co-Founder, Hope Leigh Marketing Group & Corbin Global Consultants
Carrie Corbin has spent her career turning recruitment marketing into a results-driven discipline. From shaping talent strategies at industry giants like Dell and Samsung to leading Hope Leigh Marketing Group, Carrie knows how to align innovation with measurable outcomes. Her approaches have earned recognition from outlets like Good Morning America and the White House, spotlighting her expertise in tackling complex staffing challenges.
Whether championing diversity and inclusion or mentoring leaders in attracting top talent, Carrie’s work sets the bar for what effective recruitment strategies can achieve.
6. Hung Lee
Curator, Recruiting Brainfood
Hung Lee doesn’t just track trends but shapes them. As the editor of Recruiting Brainfood, the go-to weekly newsletter for HR and recruitment pros, he delivers sharp, actionable insights that cut through the noise. With over 15 years of experience spanning agency recruitment, talent leadership, and pioneering platforms like WorkShape, Hung connects the dots others miss. His work is a masterclass in making the complex simple and the simple impactful.
7. Meghan M. Biro
Founder & CEO, TalentCulture; Host, #WorkTrends Podcast
Meghan M. Biro seamlessly bridges the human and digital in HR, crafting how organizations recruit, engage, and empower talent. As the founder of TalentCulture and the #WorkTrends Podcast, Meghan has created platforms that spark meaningful conversations about the future of work. Whether collaborating with startups or global powerhouses like Microsoft and Google, her work brings fresh perspectives to the table.
A Forbes contributor and a recognized leader in HR and tech, Meghan’s influence extends to redefining how we think about talent and technology. Whether advising HR tech brands or catalyzing workplace innovation, Meghan is shaping the intersection where talent meets technology.
8. Tim Sackett
President, HRU Technical Resources; Author, The Talent Fix
Tim Sackett delivers no-nonsense insights with a dash of humor, making him a standout voice in recruitment and HR. As the author of The Talent Fix and a Top 10 Global HR Influencer, Tim’s expertise spans hiring strategies, employer branding, and cutting-edge talent tech.
Through his leadership at HRU Technical Resources, Tim translates complex challenges into practical solutions. And yes, he’s unapologetically the “foremost expert on workplace hugging,” bringing relatability and a human touch to every conversation about work and people.
9. William Tincup
Co-founder, WRKdefined; Venture Partner, Evergreen Mountain Equity Partners
If HR had a “provocateur-in-chief,” it would be William Tincup. Over two decades, he’s mastered the art of questioning the status quo in HR and talent acquisition. As co-founder of WRKdefined, William dives into everything from onboarding to recruiting, creating a space for bold conversations about the future of work. Beyond that, he’s a venture partner at Evergreen Mountain Equity Partners andFuture Wrk Ventures, where he advises startups and tech companies on strategy, growth, and innovation.
Whether podcasting (fun fact: he’s hosted more HR podcasts than anyone in the world), speaking at global events, or advising HR leaders, he brings a blend of sharp insight and refreshing humor. If you’re ready to challenge how you think about work, William’s your go-to voice.
10. Chad Sowash & Joel Cheeseman
Co-Hosts, The Chad & Cheese Podcast
Chad Sowash and Joel Cheeseman are HR’s most unfiltered voices. As co-hosts of The Chad & Cheese Podcast, they bring sharp humor and candid takes on recruitment and HR practices.
Chad’s depth of experience in workforce and economic development meets Joel’s sharp eye for HR tech and marketing, creating a partnership that doesn’t just report trends but challenges them. Their podcast isn’t just a conversation – it’s a wake-up call for HR professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve.
11. Christopher Rainey
Co-Founder & CEO, HR Leaders; Host, HR Leaders Podcast
Christopher Rainey is redefining how HR professionals prepare for the challenges of tomorrow. As the CEO and co-founder of HR Leaders, he’s built a platform that’s more than just a learning hub – it’s a community where HR professionals can access live-streamed events, expert panels, and an extensive library of insights.
Through the HR Leaders Podcast, Christopher brings together executives from global powerhouses like Coca-Cola, Nike, and Microsoft to share actionable strategies and spark transformative conversations. His mission? To equip HR leaders with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in an ever-evolving workplace.
12. Craig Fisher
CMO, Cnect; Founder, TalentNet Media; Author, Hiring Humans
As the CMO of Cnect, Craig Fisher leverages AI to revolutionize candidate experiences, making hiring smarter and more efficient. With TalentNet Media, Craig has spent over a decade refining recruitment strategies, building standout employer brands, and helping organizations stay ahead.
He’s also the author of the Amazon bestseller Hiring Humans and the mastermind behind the award-winning TalentNet Live conferences, where recruiters and HR pros gain real-world insights to elevate their game.
13. Gerry Crispin
Co-Founder, CareerXroads; Champion for Candidate Experience
Gerry Crispin has spent decades redefining talent acquisition by fostering collaboration and championing fairness in recruitment. As the co-founder of CareerXroads, he’s built a community where top TA leaders exchange ideas, challenge norms, and push the boundaries of recruitment practices.
Gerry’s influence doesn’t stop there. He co-founded TalentBoard and the Candidate Experience Awards, setting industry benchmarks for treating candidates as true partners in the hiring process. His work inspires HR professionals to make recruitment effective, equitable, and sustainable.
14. Jim Durbin
Founder, Respondable
Jim Durbin, known as The Indeed Whisperer, has redefined recruitment advertising with unmatched precision. As the founder of Respondable, he partners with TA teams and recruitment influencers to drive impactful results through strategic advertising and hands-on training.
Jim’s expertise lies in high-volume hiring and turning data into actionable insights. Whether optimizing recruitment strategies or challenging conventional algorithms, his work reflects a relentless commitment to innovation and excellence in talent acquisition.
15. Joel Lalgee
Founder, The Realest Recruiter; Content Creator, Podcast Host
Joel Lalgee, known as “The Realest Recruiter,” has mastered the art of recruitment for construction companies. Over a decade, he’s seamlessly blended modern technology with tried-and-true methods to connect businesses with top talent–from superintendents to project executives–with speed and precision.
Joel cuts through the noise as a podcast host and industry voice with no-nonsense insights into talent acquisition. His ability to bridge innovation with practicality makes him a trusted ally for companies building exceptional teams.
16. Josh Bersin
Global Industry Analyst; Founder & CEO, The Josh Bersin Academy
Josh Bersin is a powerhouse in the HR world, known for his deep insights into corporate HR, leadership, and workplace technology. As the founder of Bersin & Associates, now Bersin by Deloitte, Josh has spent decades shaping HR best practices and guiding organizations toward innovative talent strategies.
Through his work at the Josh Bersin Academy, Josh empowers HR professionals with cutting-edge learning opportunities and helps them navigate the complexities of modern workplaces.
17. Katrina Kibben
Founder, Three Ears Media; Keynote Speaker & Recruiting Expert
Katrina Kibben has built their career transforming how organizations attract and connect with talent. As the founder of Three Ears Media, they train recruiting teams to create human-centered hiring strategies that go beyond the basics. From their groundbreaking start as Monster.com’s first social media hire, Katrina has honed a talent for crafting compelling job posts and reshaping hiring manager relationships into true partnerships.
Whether coaching Fortune 100 companies or guiding job seekers on LinkedIn makeovers, Katrina’s innovative approach makes hiring more empathetic, impactful, and effective.
18. Kris Dunn
Chief Human Resources Officer – US and Canada, Marriott International; Founder, HR Capitalist; Author
Kris Dunn brings an unfiltered perspective to HR and talent acquisition. With decades of experience at Fortune 500s and VC–backed startups, he’s built a reputation for cutting through the noise and tackling the real challenges of hiring.
As the creator of HR Capitalist, Kris has fostered a vibrant community of HR pros and recruiters, sharing candid insights and practical advice. His books, The 9 Faces of HR and Best Boss Ever, showcase his deep understanding of leadership and motivation, making him one of the most relatable and respected voices in the field.
19. Matt Charney
Editor in Chief, Recruiter.com; CMO, Employer.com
You don’t talk recruitment marketing without mentioning Matt Charney. As editor-in-chief at Recruiter.com, Matt has made a career connecting the dots between brand strategy and talent acquisition. His knack for blending sharp insights with creative storytelling has earned him a seat at the table with some of the biggest names in the business.
Whether he’s redefining how brands attract talent or writing the playbook on recruitment innovation, Matt brings a fresh, candid voice to the HR conversation – one that’s impossible to ignore.
20. Roberta Matuson
Strategic Advisor on Talent; Global Executive Coach; President, Matuson Consulting; Author
Roberta Matuson knows talent. With a career spanning decades and clients like General Motors and Takeda Pharmaceuticals, she’s helped companies cut turnover, boost retention, and save millions in hiring costs. But her real magic? Making complex talent strategies feel doable and deeply human.
She’s not just a coach or advisor; she’s the author of game-changing books like Suddenly in Charge and Can We Talk?. When leaders are looking for clarity in today’s chaotic workplace, Roberta is the first call they make
21. Ryan Stene
Vice President, Wells Fargo; Strategic Recruitment Leader, and Operations Optimizer
If talent acquisition had a playbook, Ryan Stene would be one of its chief authors. With nearly two decades of experience, Ryan’s been the go-to for organizations – from start-ups to Fortune 100 giants – looking to transform hiring into a competitive edge.
What sets him apart? A knack for blending data-driven strategies with hands-on expertise to craft recruitment foundations that don’t just work – they last. Whether advising on candidate experience or streamlining operations, Ryan’s approach ensures every hire serves a purpose, every process delivers results, and every investment counts.
22. Sailesh Hota
Practice Director, Everest Group; Analyst & TA Strategy Specialist
As Practice Director at Everest Group, Sailesh connects the dots between technology, talent acquisition, and strategy, delivering insights that help organizations navigate even the most complex challenges.
From shaping candidate engagement platforms to advising on M&A strategies, Sailesh’s influence goes well beyond research. He’s a trusted ally for recruitment influencers in 2025 and leaders seeking more than surface-level insights – they need a partner with a clear vision of where the industry is headed and the strategies to lead the way.
23. Serge Boudreau
Vice President – Global Agency Partnerships, CSquared Technologies; Anchor, The HR Morning Show
Serge Boudreau doesn’t just talk about recruitment. He questions it, redefines it, and pushes it forward. As the Co-Founder of CSquared Technologyand the voice behind The Recruitment Flex Podcast, Serge is a leading voice in reshaping how talent acquisition works in an AI-driven world.
What makes Serge’s perspective stick? It’s his unapologetic focus on quality over quantity. His candid conversations with industry leaders cut through the noise, offering recruiters actionable insights that prioritize meaningful connections over sheer numbers. In a world obsessed with metrics, Serge reminds us that true recruitment success is finding the right fit, not just filling seats.
24. Shelly Billinghurst
President, Hire Value Inc.; Former Co-Host, The Recruitment Flex Podcast
Shelley Billinghurst has a simple rule for recruitment: If the data isn’t driving results, it’s just noise. As President of Hire Value Inc., Shelley helps organizations craft recruitment strategies that deliver consistent, measurable outcomes. With over two decades of experience, she has a keen eye for what motivates candidates and how to turn that into an advantage for businesses.
Her work as the co-host of The Recruitment Flex Podcast showcased her sharp insights and knack for turning complex talent challenges into practical solutions. Whether it’s maximizing recruitment ad ROI or rethinking hiring strategies, Shelley’s work is a masterclass in blending big-picture thinking with ground-level execution.
25. Sven Elbert
Head Analyst Services, Fosway Group
Sven Elbert thrives at the intersection of data and decision-making. As Head Analyst Services at Fosway Group, he translates layers of the corporate, vendor, and market insights into strategies that help organizations tackle next-gen HCM and talent challenges with confidence.
With hands-on experience spanning product strategy, customer success, and HR software implementation, Sven has seen the talent tech landscape from every angle. His knack for distilling complexity into clarity has made him a go-to expert for workforce leaders navigating the evolving demands of modern talent management.
26. Krishna Sai Charan Yanamandra
Vice President, Everest Group
Krishna Sai Charan is redefining how organizations approach talent acquisition and management. As Vice President at Everest Group, he brings sharp analysis and strategic guidance to the RPO and MSP spaces, helping businesses navigate shifting workforce dynamics with confidence.
Known for his ability to simplify complexities, Krishna connects market trends with actionable strategies. Whether speaking at global conferences or hosting thought-provoking webinars, he delivers insights that empower organizations to rethink their approach to talent acquisition. His expertise makes him a vital ally for businesses aiming to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape.
27. Madeline Laurano
Founder, Aptitude Research
Madeline Laurano cuts through the HR tech buzz to deliver research that matters. As the founder of Aptitude Research, she focuses on what HR leaders really need – clear insights, measurable results, and technology that works.
From tackling the nuances of quality of hire to offering no-nonsense advice for vendors, Madeline’s work is both practical and visionary. Her research is about solving real-world challenges. Through her reports, podcasts, and panels, she equips organizations with the clarity and tools they need to navigate the future of human resources confidently.
28. Matt Adam
Executive Vice President & Chief Talent Strategist, NAS Recruitment Innovation
Matt Adam has spent over two decades transforming recruitment marketing into an art and science. At NAS Recruitment Innovation, he partners with Fortune 500 companies to craft compelling employment brands, streamline candidate experiences, and achieve measurable hiring success.
A seasoned speaker and writer, Matt’s expertise in social media, career site optimization, and employer branding has been showcased at national conferences such as SHRM. His thought leadership, rooted in innovation and practical solutions, has earned him recognition as a trusted advisor in the competitive world of talent acquisition.
29. Prafulla Deori
Head of Talent Acquisition, APAC at Ericsson Enterprise
Prafulla Deori isn’t just building teams. He’s shaping the future of talent strategy across APAC. As one of the top recruitment influencers, he blends over a decade of expertise with a clear focus on leadership, diversity, and inclusion.
A LinkedIn Top Voice and relentless advocate for equitable hiring, Prafulla’s achievements include launching impactful campus hiring programs and establishing a thriving R&D center. With entrepreneurial training from IIM Kozhikode, his vision is simple but profound: align talent with purpose to create transformative recruitment ecosystems.
30. Jeff Dickey-Chasins
Job Board Consultant, Former Marketing Director at Dice.com
The Job Board Doctor’s legacy began with Jeff Dickey-Chasins, an industry trailblazer who transformed Dice.com from $7 million to over $65 million in just three years. Over his career, Jeff worked with 750+ job boards and HR-related sites, making waves in almost every sector. In July 2024, he passed the torch to a new generation of consultants, marking his well-earned retirement.
The Job Board Doctor team carries Jeff’s vision forward, helping job boards and recruitment marketing services not just survive but thrive. From actionable strategies to tailored consulting, they remain a trusted partner for operators looking to grow sales, boost profitability, and enhance customer engagement. Whether starting fresh or optimizing an established platform, their expertise keeps you ahead of the curve.
FAQs
Can recruitment influencers help my career?
Yes, but just following them won’t cut it. It’s about what you do with their insights. Recruitment influencers bridge theory and practice, sharing trends, strategies, and candid advice you won’t find in a textbook. From decoding AI’s role in recruitment to rethinking leadership in hybrid workplaces, their expertise can inspire you to rethink your approach and implement changes that matter.
Where can I find recruitment influencers?
LinkedIn is the powerhouse. It’s where many of HR’s biggest conversations happen, from in-depth posts to vibrant debates in the comments. Instagram offers a window into their leadership styles–less formal, more human. TikTok, surprisingly, has emerged as a hotspot for quick, sharp insights that can shift perspectives in under a minute. Don’t limit yourself to one platform if you want the full picture. Follow them where they shine, and you’ll gain a nuanced understanding of their approach.
Explore our curated list of top recruitment influencers to discover who’s making an impact on these platforms.
Are recruitment influencers on TikTok and Instagram worth following?
It depends on what you’re looking for. TikTok is where recruitment influencers take big ideas and break them into digestible, creative formats that are perfect for sparking curiosity. On the other hand, Instagram is more about storytelling, offering glimpses into their work culture philosophies and leadership journeys. While LinkedIn remains the heavyweight for professional growth, TikTok and Instagram add layers of context and creativity that make their insights more relatable and sometimes more actionable.
Who is known as an HR guru?
An HR guru isn’t just someone with a following– they’re the architects of the field. Think Josh Bersin, who demystifies HR tech trends, or Jeanne Meister, who reimagines the future of work. These gurus don’t just share ideas; they shape organizations’ frameworks. Whether advising Fortune 500 companies or publishing groundbreaking research, they redefine what’s possible in HR. Influencers or gurus, these leaders leave a mark that resonates far beyond the latest trend.
You’re now armed with the names driving HR’s most vital conversations. But influence doesn’t end with them – it begins with how you engage. Which of these recruitment influencers will you follow? What ideas will you take back to your teams?
Stay inspired by the top voices in recruitment—follow Joveo on LinkedIn and Twitter for game-changing insights and strategies to transform your hiring approach.
