Who Should Apply

The Modern CHRO Role program is designed for experienced senior HR leaders who have demonstrated CHRO potential and are preparing for broader enterprise leadership responsibilities.

Participants are typically members of the senior HR leadership team who meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • Have been identified as high-potential successors to the CHRO role
  • Are preparing to transition into the CHRO role
  • Have recently been named as CHRO successor
  • Are being developed for broader enterprise leadership responsibilities beyond the HR function

Admission is by nomination and requires executive sponsorship from a CHRO, CEO, board member, or equivalent senior executive leader.

Program Experience

A Four-Month Leadership Journey

This hybrid program combines immersive in-person learning in New York City with live virtual sessions, executive assignments, structured reflection, and peer dialogue between sessions.

Participants don’t simply attend presentations. Throughout the program, they examine real executive challenges, test new approaches, and apply new ideas to their own organizations while learning alongside an accomplished cohort of senior HR executives. Every participant leaves with a personalized 90-day transition, a practical roadmap for stepping into the CHRO role with greater clarity.

To foster candid discussion and meaningful relationships, enrollment is intentionally limited to approximately 25 participants. Attendance at all in-person and live virtual sessions is expected.

Participants leave with a broader business perspective, stronger executive judgment, and a trusted network of senior HR peers. They are better equipped to partner with CEOs and boards, navigate competing stakeholder priorities, and lead HR at the level the role demands.

In-Person Sessions | New York City

  • November 11–12, 2026
  • March 10–11, 2027

Cornell ILR Conference Center | Midtown Manhattan

Live Virtual Sessions

  • January–February 2027

Program Investment

Tuition: $17,500
CAHRS Partner Rate: $15,750

Participants receive a joint Certificate of Completion from Cornell ILR and the National Academy of Human Resources.

How to Apply

Admission is competitive and based on executive sponsorship, leadership experience, and cohort fit.

Applications include:

  • Executive sponsorship letter describing the candidate’s readiness and development goals
  • Executive biography with headshot

Because enrollment is limited, early nominations are encouraged.

For nominations or questions regarding the program, contact:

Karen Siewert
Director, ILR Senior Leader Programs
Cornell University ILR School
kts47@cornell.edu

Inquire for more information