Why HR Struggles to Prove ROI (And How to Finally Get Executive Buy-In)

Despite increased investment in HR, talent, and workforce transformation, many organizations still struggle to clearly demonstrate ROI to executive stakeholders. As expectations from CFOs and boards continue to rise, HR leaders are under growing pressure to translate people initiatives into measurable business impact. In this session, Dr. Marline C. Duroseau, Managing Director of HR & Leadership Development at Brandon Hall Group and former CFO, examines the persistent gap between HR activity and financial accountability. Drawing on Brandon Hall Group research and real-world executive experience, she explores why traditional approaches to measuring HR impact fall short, what financial leaders are actually looking for, and how organizations can reframe their business cases to drive faster decisions and stronger executive alignment. Attendees will gain practical insight into how to position HR investments in terms of risk, productivity, and performance, enabling them to move beyond participation metrics and establish credibility at the leadership table.