Get to know the female leaders expanding HR's influence beyond traditional people functions
HR has spent decades being viewed as a support function. The women recognized in HRD Canada's Elite Women 2026 are helping redefine that perception.
This year's honourees are building consultancies, developing financial frameworks, influencing executive decision-making, and leading business transformation initiatives that extend far beyond traditional HR responsibilities.
Their achievements are particularly notable given the barriers many continue to face. More than three-quarters of surveyed honourees believe they would have reached greater seniority had they not been women.
Part of the prestigious 2026 showcase are:
- Mitsa Ouroumis of OMVIC
- Karrina Dusablon of Équité Association
- Daneal Charney of FIVEX
- Claudia Ursache of MTU Maintenance Canada
- Natalie Bell of Natalie Bell Consulting
- Jennifer Rozon of MCLEAN & COMPANY / INFO-TECH Canada
Together, this year’s awardees represent a new generation of HR leadership, one measured not by policies administered but by organizations transformed.
