HR professionals and business leaders from across the Carolinas gathered on October 19 at The Carolina Theatre for the third annual Carolina HR Summit & Awards, hosted by Search Solution Group. The event brought together professionals from a wide range of industries for an evening of learning, connection, and recognition.
This year’s event was supported by sponsors Business North Carolina, NFP, Cannavo Studios, Marathon Health, PayStandards, ADP, Best Impressions Catering, The Audi Group, and Office Environments.
Daniel Webster, Senior Vice President of Investor Relations & Business Development at the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, delivered a keynote on the Charlotte region’s economic development and its impact on human capital. He highlighted population growth, regional investment, and the role of universities, community colleges, and workforce development in preparing the region for future hiring needs.
Jessica Bronzert, Founder & CEO of SparksGRP, presented “Imposter Syndrome: A Misdiagnosis.” Through humor, personal anecdotes, and practical advice, she debunked common myths about impostor syndrome, explored how workplace environments can contribute to self-doubt, and encouraged HR leaders to recognize their accomplishments and trust their expertise.
The evening also featured a panel discussion moderated by Kisha Smith, Chief People Officer at Tepper Sports. Panelists included Sebastien Girard, Chief People Officer at Novant Health; Julie Katigan, Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at Perdue Farms; Craig Pyke, Head of Talent Acquisition at Rivian; and Anna Orsenigo, Senior People Business Partner at LPL Financial.
The panel discussion brought candid perspectives on leading through change, building meaningful careers, and supporting people in an evolving workplace. Panelists shared personal experiences and practical lessons, giving attendees insights to bring back to their own teams.
To close the conversation, each panelist answered: What career advice would you give to a “younger you” sitting in the audience today who wants to have a successful and fulfilling career in HR?
Their responses reflected the different paths that brought them into leadership. Among the advice shared, Craig Pyke, Head of TA at Rivian, offered three reminders:
- Go into the office. Make time for the in-person interactions that help build relationships.
- Chase the leader, not the title. Seek out leaders you can learn from and who will support your growth.
- Be kind. How you treat people leaves a lasting impression throughout your career.
The closing discussion reflected the purpose of the Carolina HR Summit and Awards: bringing HR professionals together to learn from one another, share experiences, and support the next generation of leaders.
2026 Carolina HR Standout Award Honorees
Congratulations to this year’s honorees! Your dedication to leadership, commitment to excellence, and lasting impact on people and workplaces throughout the Carolinas deserve celebration.
- Christine Hollanshead, VP of People at PSA Airlines
- Ashleigh Glass, Manager of Employee Engagement & Culture at Meduit
- Domonique Williams, Head of HR, Americas at Forbo Movement Systems
- Bonnie Carter, HR & Benefits Senior Manager at Wray Ward
- Brandy Carter, HR Director, Americas at BlueStar Silicones
- Amy Williams-Alvarez, Senior HRBP at Harris Teeter
- James Grenon, VP of Administration at Summit Credit Union
- Kris McVey, VP of People & Culture at Aalberts Integrated Piping Systems
- Pablo Espin, VP of Human Resources at ScentAir
- Jenel Cotto, Human Resources Director at Xylem
All honorees will be featured in the January 2027 issue of Business North Carolina magazine.
About Search Solution Group
Search Solution Group is a Charlotte-based executive search, staffing, and recruiting firm founded in 2002. The firm helps organizations nationwide hire talent across human resources, finance, IT, operations, marketing, and other business functions. As host of the Carolina HR Summit & Awards, Search Solution Group supports the HR community by bringing professionals together to share ideas, build relationships, and recognize outstanding leadership.
