Join us for an intimate CHRO Coffee Chat focused on one of the most critical relationships in any organization: the partnership between the CEO and CHRO. In this candid, peer-led conversation, seasoned local CHROs will reflect on lessons learned across multiple CHRO roles. They’ll explore what it truly takes to build trust with the CEO, align on enterprise strategy, navigate moments of tension, and elevate the impact of the people function at the highest level.
FEATURED PANELISTS
Megan Hansen, Chief People Office, Ontra
Megan Hansen is Ontra’s Chief People Officer and the executive sponsor of Ontra’s DEI Council. She is responsible for unlocking Ontra’s growth by creating an ecosystem where talented people can do their best work. Prior to Ontra, Megan was the Chief People and Culture Officer at Smartsheet and also served in leadership roles at MOD Pizza, Outerwall, and Frog Design. Megan holds an M.S. in Organizational Development from the University of San Francisco and a B.S. in Psychology from Seattle Pacific University. Based in Seattle, Megan enjoys many adrenaline-inducing activities, including skiing, climbing mountains, ziplining, and cheering on her daughters from the sidelines of the volleyball court.
Raquel Karls, EVP Chief People Officer, BECU
Raquel joined BECU in 2023 as the EVP Chief People Officer and has over 30 years of global human resources experience. In her role, Raquel is responsible for crafting and implementing the talent strategy and human capital roadmap. Her leadership is across all facets of human resources, including talent management and acquisition, total rewards, people operations & analytics, business partnership, and the employee experience.
Prior to BECU, Raquel served as Chief People Officer for REI Co-op and Outerwall, the company behind Coinstar and Redbox. She has also held senior roles at Pepsi Bottling Company, Expedia, and Starbucks. Raquel holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of Oregon.