At Advanced Resources, we believe transformation isn’t just about systems or strategy—it’s about people. That philosophy was at the heart of our most recent event, Human Capital Transformation: C-Suite Perspectives on the Future of Work, where over 135 senior HR and Finance leaders gathered for a dynamic conversation on leading through change.

From the moment guests arrived at the 67th floor of the Metropolitan Club in Willis Tower, there was a palpable energy in the room. Attendees represented some of the most iconic and innovative companies across industries—McDonald’s, Wintrust, UL Solutions, Fortune Brands, Rush, KPMG, CDW, ConAgra, and many more.

Key Takeaways from the Panel

Moderated by Rich Diaz, CEO of Advanced Resources, the panel featured:

  • Carolyn Crosby, Sr. Director of Enterprise Change Management at McDonald’s
  • Norah Larke, EVP & CHRO at Wintrust
  • Wes Zartman, VP of HR Transformation at Fortune Brands Innovations
  • Cynthia Ho, VP of Finance Transformation at UL Solutions

Each executive offered a candid, insightful look into the strategies, lessons, and realities of transformation within their organizations. Despite the unique journeys each company has taken, a few consistent themes emerged:

1. Lead with Culture and Values
Transformation cannot succeed without a foundation rooted in organizational values. As one panelist put it, “People create culture, not systems or policies.” Whether modernizing legacy systems or centralizing operations, aligning with the human side of change remained non-negotiable.

2. Employee Engagement Is the North Star
From “vibe checks” for new hires to transparent communications from the Csuite, leaders emphasized that employee trust and inclusion must be earned and maintained through every phase of change. “Don’t underestimate how much people can handle when you’re honest,” one panelist shared.

3. Alignment Before Action
Whether launching an ERP system or rolling out a new EVP, every successful initiative started with cross-functional alignment—on technology, communication, leadership, and goals. Without it, transformation efforts are destined to fall short.

4. Communicate, Then Communicate Again
Several leaders emphasized the importance of being the “source of truth” during times of uncertainty. No “meeting after the meeting”—transparency builds credibility, and credibility builds momentum.

5. Plan, Sequence, and Adjust
Transformation isn’t linear. It requires thoughtful sequencing, the flexibility to adjust, and the courage to course-correct. “Map the journey. Think ahead. Be prepared to pivot—and own your mistakes,” as one executive advised.

Quantitative Feedback

Our post-event survey revealed overwhelmingly positive responses:

Advanced Resources is considered a thought leader and ideal partner to support or lead transformation efforts.

  • 100% strongly agreed the session was valuable.
  • All attendees agreed or strongly agreed the location and facilities were ideal.
  • Panelists were praised for their depth of subject matter expertise.
  • Program content and length were both rated as highly valuable and appropriate.

Audience Reflections

Attendees shared what they valued most:

  • “Hearing inspirational stories grounded in reality”
  • “The mix of perspectives across HR and Finance”
  • “Insights I can take back to my organization immediately”

Some of the strategic priorities attendees cited for the remainder of 2025 include:

  • Integrating a newly defined culture
  • Launching a learning & development summit
  • Executing systems harmonization
  • Building a compelling Employee Value Proposition (EVP)

Final Reflections

This event served as a powerful reminder: transformation isn’t something that happens to your people—it’s something you do with them. Our expert panelists showed that with the right mindset, clear communication, and intentional leadership, even the most complex change can be navigated with care and clarity.

We’re grateful to everyone who joined us, and we remain committed to helping organizations tackle their most pressing workforce priorities—whether it’s transformation, workforce strategy, or organizational growth.

“Don’t underestimate the power of planning. Learn to be uncomfortable. Lead with care. Put people first. Be transparent. And above all—communicate, adjust, and stay aligned.”

Until next time,
The Advanced Resources Team
Because it’s not just business. With Advanced Resources… it’s personal.