Lead · Serve · Grow
How Does HR Stay at the Table?
AI is reshaping how work gets done. CEOs name economic uncertainty their #1 threat in 2026. And HR's role keeps growing. A panel of standout St. Louis CHROs in candid conversation about what it actually takes to keep your seat as the table itself is changing.
Moderator & Panel
Moderator
Dr. Amy Hunter
VP, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion / Talent Acquisition
Caleres
The Panel
Vanessa Parker-Lewis, Ph.D.
Panelist
Chief Human Resources Officer
McCormack Baron Salazar
McCormack Baron Salazar
Fabio Letieri
Panelist
Chief Human Resources Officer
Nestlé Purina PetCare North America
Nestlé Purina PetCare North America
Kathleen Welter
Panelist
Chief Human Resources Officer
Caleres
Caleres
Morning of June 22
Plan to arrive by 8:30 AM for networking and a light breakfast. Program runs from 9:00 to 10:15 AM, with audience Q&A built into the back third.
8:30 AM
Doors open · Networking & light breakfast
Coffee, light breakfast, and a chance to connect with fellow members and leaders before the program begins.
9:00 AM
Welcome & panelist introductions
SMPHR Programs Committee opens the morning. Our moderator introduces the panel and frames the conversation.
9:10 AM
Panel discussion, Business Accretive HR
A candid moderated conversation on how HR moves from support function to true strategic business partner. Real examples from logistics, retail, and community-development industries.
9:55 AM
Audience Q&A
Open mic. Bring your real-world questions for the panelists.
10:15 AM
Close
Closing remarks. Mentoring program reminders. Doors stay open briefly for follow-up conversations.
Common questions
Where is RGA Headquarters and how do I get there?
RGA Headquarters, 16600 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield, MO 63017. Full directions, parking instructions, and the suite/floor we'll be on are sent in the logistics reminder email by Friday, June 19. Free on-site parking is available.
Will the panel be recorded or live-streamed?
No live stream. We will record audio for an optional members-only recap and pull a few short clips for social media (with panelist permission). Audience Q&A is not recorded.
Can I bring a colleague who isn't a SMPHR member?
Absolutely, please do. Non-members are warmly welcome to attend for a $35 fee. The event is free for SMPHR members, so if they join SMPHR, their registration is complimentary. Either way, we'd love to have them in the room, and if they decide to become a member after the event, we'd be glad to make that happen.
What's the dress code?
Business casual. The panelists will be in business professional, but you should wear what you'd wear to a normal Monday in your office.
Will there be more events like this?
We only have one CHRO Roundtable a year, this is our marquee event. The rest of our 2026 lineup, community outreach, professional development, mentoring program, networking, and the end-of-year celebration, is on our 2026 Events Calendar.
Who do I contact with questions?
Email the SMPHR Programs Committee at programs@smphr.org. We answer within one business day.