HR leaders need to be able to network with peers across industries to stimulate their thinking about innovative solutions to rapidly changing business challenges. In response to this need, we created the HR Strategic Issues Council in March 2000 to enable members to keep informed on critical people-related business challenges; such as, building e-businesses, knowledge sharing, talent retention, global growth and leadership development. The Council offers unique benefits to the individual and the firm:

• A confidential and candid exchange of insights, best practices and lessons learned on topics selected by members
• A senior group of colleagues available to one another for benchmarking, knowledge sharing and counsel
• Access to leading experts, sources of information and research developed by the Council

There are many claims on the time of HR leaders. The Council’s emphasis on practical, actionable solutions to real issues distinguishes it from other research and benchmarking forums.

Member organizations are typically companies pursing rapid growth or strategic change. They represent diverse industries. Companies based in North America and Europe are currently members. An annual membership fee of $5,000 per company covers the costs of research and meetings. A one-time guest fee is $1500, applicated towards membership.

Council meetings and research agendas are planned by members, guided by a steering committee.Past meetings have been hosted by TIAA-CREF in New York City, Prudential Insurance (at its Center for Learning and Innovation), Nickelodeon and Vault.com in New York City, Charles Schwab & Co. in San Francisco, and Cap Gemini Ernst & Young at its Center for Business Innovation in Cambridge