Chapter Meetings

Wednesday, November 11, 2026 | 7:45 - 10:00 AM | Glen Oaks Country Club, West Des Moines

What does it really take to become a trusted business partner to the CEO and senior leadership team?

This candid CEO panel will take HR professionals inside the executive perspective to explore what senior leaders truly value in their HR partners. Panelists will share their expectations for HR, what builds or erodes credibility, when HR should challenge leadership, and what separates a strong HR professional from a strategic business advisor.

The conversation will explore how HR can strengthen its understanding of the business, balance employee advocacy with organizational needs, bring solutions instead of simply identifying problems, and contribute more effectively at the executive table. Panelists will also look ahead at emerging workforce challenges, including AI and changing employee expectations, and discuss the skills HR professionals will need to remain valuable strategic partners.

Expect an honest, practical conversation, including a fast-paced lightning round, designed to help HR professionals better understand what CEOs need from HR and how they can become the trusted advisors leaders seek out before the decision is made.

Attendee Agenda

7:45 - 8:00 AM | Attendee Networking

8:00 -8:15 AM | Welcome from SHRM Central Iowa Programming Committee & Recognition

8:15 - 9:30 AM |Speaker Presentation

9:30 - 10:00 AM | Attendee Networking