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According to Gallup, the executive least likely to become CEO is your Human Resources Officer.  It may be time to rethink this often-overlooked position.  Here are three reasons why.

• They can increase human capital returns during a merger and acquisition.  Harvard Business Review says failure to manage and motivate employees is why seventy to ninety percent of acquisitions don’t realize their intended benefits. HR leaders have spent their careers in the realms of talent acquisition and human development.  
• They understand people and human behavioral principles.  As a result, they’re able to create a culture of psychological safety, which improves agility.  
• They can help companies build trust because they know how to invest in those who have the biggest influence over the most employees.  And they don’t need to be reminded that big social issues, like the MeToo movement, are real and need to be addressed.

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