My Ultimate HR Advice: From 100 CHROs & People Leaders

August 21, 2026 – In an HR Grapevine special feature compiling career advice from 100 CHROs and senior people leaders, Sara Lester, Chief Human Resources Officer at Bright Horizons, shares career advice drawing from her own experience in the field. 

“Be your authentic self as a leader. There can be a lot of pressure to fit a certain leadership mold, but I've found that people respond best when you're genuine and play to your own strengths. I've never been the polished motivational-speaker type, and that's perfectly fine. I've had the most success by leaning into my own style – a combination of directness, humor, and a lawyer's eye for detail. Every leader's style will look different, but authenticity builds trust, and trust is ultimately what allows us to navigate challenges, drive change, and support our people effectively.”

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