We Grow CHROs
A cohort-based executive program for HR leaders ready to operate at the highest level - making real business decisions, influencing outcomes, and partnering with CEOs, CFOs, and Boards.
Designed for Leaders Already at the Table - or About to Be
People Leader Accelerator is for HR leaders who already carry real responsibility - and are expected to influence business outcomes, not just run HR programs.
That often means:
greater scope and visibility
more direct exposure to executive decision-making
higher expectations - and higher stakes
PLA helps you step into that next level with clarity and confidence.
Testimonials
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"PLA gave me what I'd been missing since grad school - real time application of strategic HR concepts with a community that challenges and supports. It's been transformational."
Emily Sauey, Head of People Operations & Chief of Staff at Verto Education
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"PLA offers a truly unique learning experience through its emphasis on reflection and practical application. Each week dives into a new People topic, with assignments designed to encourage deep reflection on how you've applied key concepts and how you'll implement them going forward. The assignments are incredibly practical and I continue to find myself revisiting PLA homework to use in my day-to-day. The live discussions provide even more value, by facilitating dynamic conversations around People topics. You're not only engaging with your cohort of experienced People Leaders but also learning directly from experts in the field. These discussions have given me countless actionable insights that continue to shape my approach and perspective."
Elyse Wolin, Head of People at Future
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"PLA provided me with exactly what I was looking for from this experience - a selection of practical tools, a great network, mentorship, confidence, and exposure to other thoughts, practices and ideas."
Jamie Thorpe, SVP of People at Pursuit
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"Every week I look forward to the PLA meetings and even get excited about the homework because I know the readings will provide valuable information to reflect on. What I have learned in PLA has helped build my confidence. It is not just the knowledge I've gained, but the connections I've built that I know will continue to provide support. Everyone in my PLA cohort is smart and has helpful perspective to share - there is so much we can learn from each other and bounce off each other. We are challenged to think critically and be assets to our companies by always thinking about how we can support the business. I approach my work differently because of PLA and am a more effective leader because of the program. I am so happy I decided to invest my own money in this program!"
Jane von Halle, Director of Talent Development at Strive Health
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“I left the PLA program with several key takeaways. First, the value of making time for your own thoughts. This program was great for structured reflection. Second, don’t over-engineer things, especially in growth companies. And finally, my biggest ‘takeaway’ from the PLA was really the new relationships. I’ve already found myself relying on them!”
Jessica Tory, VP of People at Qualia
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"PLA sharpened my focus on what truly drives business impact through HR - helping me lead with greater clarity, intentionality, and strategic value."
Ryan MacPherson, Head of People at Stash
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“I’ve worked with a number of rapidly growing companies, and most of them would benefit tremendously from the People Leader Accelerator. Helping HR Leaders better influence business decisions through both academic and practical training will make them more strategic and able to provide better value to their organizations.”
Saydeah Howard, Chief Talent Officer at IVP
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"PLA made me a better business leader through the people function. It's a must for anyone leading in a high-growth, investor-backed company."
Sara Mejia, Head of People at CoreX
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"PLA turned HR from an island into a village - equal parts learning, connection, and transformation. I left every week more empowered and supported than ever before."
Ryan-Mae McAvoy-Pepin, VP People Operations at Blackthorn.io
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"PLA gave me the challenge, connection, and real growth I'd been searching for as an HR leader. I came out the other side a stronger, more strategic version of myself."
Amy Czyz, Head of People at Clubhouse
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"PLA elevated my approach to People & Culture - helping me align leadership, data, and strategy to drive real impact."
Brett Brawerman, Head of Culture at FDX
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“Access to the smart and high impact team behind People Leader Accelerator, and getting time like this to have them help you build out the people function of your company - it’s just an invaluable opportunity.”
John Lilly, Venture Partner at Greylock
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Who This is For
PLA is designed for HR leaders operating at - or stepping into - the top HR role at their organization.
That typically includes:
Heads of People
VPs and senior Directors
first-time CHROs
Participants already:
own decisions with real business consequences
partner closely with CEOs and executive teams
operate in complex, high-expectation environments
They are already trusted—and now facing higher-stakes decisions.
If you’re not responsible for decisions that materially impact the business, this is not the right program.
This is not for early-career HR professional or functional specialists.
Being a People Leader Is Lonely
At senior levels, you’re expected to have answers - not ask questions.
PLA exists so you don’t have to navigate high-stakes decisions alone.
Every participant joins a long-term community of experienced leaders who understand the role, the pressure, and the tradeoffs - and who can help you think more clearly when it matters most.
Inside you’ll find a network of experienced people leaders you can connect with, share challenges, and receive support from those who’ve walked the same path.
Our core faculty has over 60 years of HR experience and has held the top HR job 15 times. Plus, we have a “Who’s Who” list of world-class subject matter experts serving as adjunct faculty.
About the Accelerator
This is a 16-week, high-rigor program built for HR leaders operating in complex, fast-moving organizations.
It’s not an academic exercise or a tour of best practices.
It is a working environment where you apply new thinking directly to the decisions you’re already responsible for - alongside peers facing similar challenges.
Each cohort is intentionally small (max 15 participants) to ensure depth, trust, and meaningful interaction.
Considering PLA?
Pick your path below:
Apply Now
Watch a short overview video
Complete a brief application
Schedule an interview
Best for leaders who already know they want to operate at a higher level.
Learn More
Explore more details about the program to determine if PLA is the right fit
Then, schedule a short conversation where we can understand your role and goals
Best if you’re still evaluating.