SHRM Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

SHRM has 6 executives leading key functions including organizational strategy, administrative operations, certification standards, board governance, regional chapter management, and local leadership development.

Committed to fostering thriving professional environments, SHRM advances the global standard for workplace excellence by providing essential resources, advocacy, and thought leadership for employers and employees across diverse industries.

Leadership Roles at SHRM

  • President & Chief Executive Officer, Action - Carolynn Johnson
  • Decatur Area SHRM President, Certification Chair, Webmaster - Kristen Robinson
  • Board of Directors & President, Elect Sky Shrm - Kelly Bolton
  • President, Upper Cumberland Society of Human Recourse Management (Ucshrm) - Lynsey Nail
  • Chapter President - Jennifer Trenhaile
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Emily Dickens
  • Carolynn Johnson - President & Chief Executive Officer, Action

    Carolynn Johnson, the President & Chief Executive Officer, Action at SHRM, directs the overarching strategic vision for organizational growth and workplace advocacy. By aligning internal initiatives with the broader mission of creating better workplaces, the President & Chief Executive Officer, Action ensures that all programs support the evolving needs of modern employers and employees. This leadership role involves constant engagement with industry stakeholders to maintain the organization's position as the foremost expert on work-related issues. Carolynn Johnson drives high-level operational efficiency while overseeing the implementation of policies that impact the global workforce. Through rigorous analysis of market trends, the President & Chief Executive Officer, Action identifies opportunities for expansion and influence. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, Johnson secures the long-term viability of the organization, ensuring that every strategic decision directly contributes to the success of the professional community served by the society.

    Kristen Robinson - Decatur Area SHRM President, Certification Chair, Webmaster

    Kristen Robinson, the Decatur Area SHRM President, Certification Chair, Webmaster at SHRM, directs regional engagement and professional development initiatives within the local chapter. By overseeing the certification process, the Certification Chair ensures that members maintain high standards of human resource competency. This leadership role involves managing the digital presence and web infrastructure to facilitate seamless communication and resource access for the local membership base. Kristen Robinson drives the strategic planning for chapter events and educational workshops, fostering a collaborative environment for HR professionals. Through the coordination of certification programs, the Certification Chair supports the career advancement of members, directly impacting the quality of human resource practices in the region. By maintaining the chapter's web platforms, Robinson ensures that all members receive timely updates and valuable industry insights, ultimately strengthening the local professional network and the broader mission of the society.

    Kelly Bolton - Board of Directors & President, Elect Sky Shrm

    Kelly Bolton, the Board of Directors & President, Elect Sky Shrm at SHRM, governs the strategic direction and long-term planning for the regional chapter. As a member of the Board of Directors, the President, Elect Sky Shrm contributes to the oversight of organizational policies and the alignment of chapter activities with the society's national objectives. This leadership role involves guiding the transition of chapter initiatives and ensuring the continuity of professional development programs. Kelly Bolton drives the engagement of local stakeholders, fostering partnerships that enhance the value provided to the membership. By participating in board-level decision-making, the President, Elect Sky Shrm influences the allocation of resources and the prioritization of regional goals. Through consistent collaboration with other board members, Bolton ensures that the chapter remains a vital resource for HR professionals, effectively supporting the society's mission to create better workplaces through active regional leadership and strategic oversight.

    Lynsey Nail - President, Upper Cumberland Society of Human Recourse Management (Ucshrm)

    Lynsey Nail, the President, Upper Cumberland Society of Human Recourse Management (Ucshrm) at SHRM, leads the operational and strategic efforts of the regional chapter. By directing the planning and execution of professional development events, the President, Upper Cumberland Society of Human Recourse Management (Ucshrm) ensures that members have access to current industry knowledge and networking opportunities. This leadership role involves managing chapter membership growth and fostering a supportive community for HR practitioners in the region. Lynsey Nail drives the implementation of initiatives that promote the society's values and standards within the local business community. Through the coordination of chapter activities, the President, Upper Cumberland Society of Human Recourse Management (Ucshrm) facilitates the exchange of best practices, directly contributing to the professional success of the membership. By maintaining strong connections with regional employers, Nail ensures that the chapter remains a relevant and impactful voice for workplace excellence.
    Lynsey Nail

    Jennifer Trenhaile - Chapter President

    Jennifer Trenhaile, the Chapter President at SHRM, oversees the daily operations and strategic programming for the local chapter. By directing the efforts of the chapter leadership team, the Chapter President ensures that all activities align with the society's mission to improve workplace environments. This leadership role involves managing member relations, organizing educational seminars, and facilitating professional networking opportunities that support the career growth of HR professionals. Jennifer Trenhaile drives the development of local initiatives that address specific regional workplace challenges, ensuring that the chapter provides actionable solutions for its members. Through the effective management of chapter resources, the Chapter President maintains a high level of engagement and participation among the local HR community. By fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning, Trenhaile strengthens the chapter's influence, ensuring that the society's national standards are effectively translated into meaningful local impact and professional development.

    Emily Dickens - Chief Administrative Officer

    Emily Dickens, the Chief Administrative Officer at SHRM, manages the internal infrastructure and operational frameworks that support the organization's mission. Overseeing human capital, legal compliance, and corporate governance, the Chief Administrative Officer ensures that all administrative processes align with the society's commitment to workplace excellence. This role involves coordinating with the executive team to streamline internal workflows and optimize resource allocation across North American operations. Emily Dickens drives the development of policies that uphold the highest standards of professional conduct and organizational integrity. By monitoring administrative performance metrics, the Chief Administrative Officer identifies areas for process improvement and risk mitigation. Through the integration of robust management systems, Dickens supports the broader strategic goals of the society, ensuring that the internal environment remains as effective and innovative as the workplaces the organization advocates for on a national scale.
    Emily Dickens

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding SHRM Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads SHRM?
    SHRM is led by Carolynn Johnson (President & Chief Executive Officer, Action), along with executives such as Kristen Robinson (Decatur Area SHRM President, Certification Chair, Webmaster) and Kelly Bolton (Board of Directors & President, Elect Sky Shrm).
    Who is part of SHRM’s executive team?
    The executive team of SHRM includes leaders such as Carolynn Johnson (President & Chief Executive Officer, Action), Kristen Robinson (Decatur Area SHRM President, Certification Chair, Webmaster), Kelly Bolton (Board of Directors & President, Elect Sky Shrm) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does SHRM have?
    SHRM has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in SHRM’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of SHRM includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Action, Decatur Area SHRM President, Certification Chair, Webmaster, Board of Directors & President, Elect Sky Shrm, President, Upper Cumberland Society of Human Recourse Management (Ucshrm), Chapter President.