HR leadership has never been more challenging—or more critical. Economic volatility, shifting employment laws, AI-driven transformation, and talent shortages are reshaping the way we attract, retain, and engage our workforce. How can we navigate these disruptions while keeping our organizations agile, resilient, and competitive?
Join us on Thursday, March 6, 2025, from 2:00–4:00 PM at Corewell Health Place for an engaging and solution-focused HR Council Meeting on HR Leadership in an Era of Disruption. This session will give our members the opportunity to connect with fellow HR executives, gain actionable strategies, and elevate the dialogue with industry experts.
What to Expect
- Candid Peer Conversations – Participate in table discussions on the biggest disruptors shaping our field, including AI, workforce policy changes, and employee wellbeing.
- Practical Strategies for Agility – Learn how to future-proof your HR strategy discovering tactics and strategies for strengthening organizational agility.
- Insights from Expert Panelists – Engage with a panel of experts and practitioners who will share their experiences on navigating rapid change.
Our Panelists
Lisa Cooper is the Founder & Chief People Officer of Cooper People Group, providing innovative HR strategies for organizations with limited or transitioning HR teams. With 20+ years of experience, she specializes in strengthening HR strategy and processes for small to mid-sized businesses. Lisa serves on multiple boards, speaks at industry events, and has received several HR leadership recognitions. A GVSU alum, she enjoys hiking national parks with her daughters and scuba diving with her husband.
Joe Dettmann is a Principal at EY, leading the firm’s global People Experience solution. Joe works with boards, CEOs, executive teams, HR and other leaders to help them create and protect value through people, largely through developing leaders, evolving corporate culture, change management, talent management, and people data and technology. Joe works directly with clients, leads EY teams, publishes, and speaks at client and industry events. Joe holds a Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology and frequently speaks at industry events. He lives in Grand Rapids with his wife and three children.
Ashleigh Draft is an attorney on Varnum’s Labor and Employment Practice Team. She is experienced in workplace investigations, defending clients in labor arbitrations, and successful resolution of employment-related disputes. She also advises clients on compliance with federal and state labor and employment laws and other workplace matters, including effective employee handbooks and policies, discrimination, disability accommodation, and wage-hour issues. Ashleigh earned her law degree from Michigan State University, a master’s degree from Northern Illinois University and a bachelor’s degree from Calvin College.
Kacey Regan is the Director of Workforce Development at DeWys Metal Solutions, bringing 15+ years of HR experience in manufacturing. She specializes in employee relations, training, and talent attraction, with a passion for breaking down employment barriers. A West Michigan native, Kacey holds a bachelor’s degree from Ferris State University. Outside of work, she enjoys volleyball, live music, painting, gardening, and camping. She resides in Grand Rapids with her husband, son and fur babies.
Following the meeting, we will have a reception with light appetizers for everyone to enjoy.
RSVP by February 27th through your calendar invitation to confirm your attendance. If you have any questions or need the invitation resent, email Carly Smyly, c.smyly@talentfirst.net.
We’re looking forward to a powerful discussion!