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October’s data shows how quickly the HR landscape continues to evolve.
Last month, Honch recorded 7,351 new HR hires and 2,694 promotions worldwide, reflecting ongoing change in how organisations are structuring leadership, culture, and workforce strategy heading into 2026.
Each of these changes represents new decision-makers, new budgets, and new opportunities for providers selling into HR.
Leadership mobility remains high across every major region, driven by digital investment and a renewed focus on people-led growth.
NB: Across the US and EU, Honch only tracks senior HR moves in organisations with 200+ employees to focus on roles with genuine strategic influence.
The UK remains one of the most active HR markets globally, with 3,234 new hires and 1,419 promotions across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Notable senior moves:
These senior appointments highlight an ongoing trend of operational and cultural change across large UK enterprises.
For providers: HR hiring in the UK is led by professional services and tech firms, with most roles focused on senior leadership and strategy. Companies are reviewing engagement tools and HR systems to improve hybrid work and retention. Insight-driven providers offering analytics, automation, or employee experience platforms are best placed to win attention.
The US recorded 3,063 new hires and 859 promotions in October, the highest volume globally.
Notable senior moves:
Many large-scale US employers continue to reshape their HR and talent leadership teams, accelerating decision-making cycles.
For providers: US hiring is strongest in tech, healthcare, and retail, centred on broad HR leadership and operations. The focus is on efficiency, with demand for tools that connect distributed teams and simplify workforce planning. Providers who can show clear ROI in automation and analytics will stand out.
Across continental Europe, Honch tracked 706 new hires and 231 promotions in October, led by Germany, the Netherlands, and the Nordics.
Notable senior moves:
European HR leaders remain focused on digitalisation, sustainability, and regional workforce planning. Many operate across multiple countries, expanding their influence and budget responsibility.
For providers: Manufacturing and financial services dominate European HR hiring, with leaders driving transformation and cultural alignment across regions. The priority is consistency, with demand for scalable, compliant HR systems that work across markets. Providers with regional reach and local insight are the ones getting meetings.
Honch tracked 2,694 promotions globally in October, continuing a trend of organisations developing leadership talent internally.
Promoted leaders often move faster than external hires, with both influence and an understanding of what needs to change.
For providers: Promotions are a key early signal. These leaders often have budget and intent before their external peers.
Analysis of company and social data shows clear priorities shaping HR investment through 2025:
HR continues to evolve from operational management to strategic leadership, with technology, wellbeing, and data shaping every decision.
Around 70% of new HR leaders spend most of their first-year budget within 100 days.
That means the buying window for October’s new leaders runs through November, December, and January, when 2026 budgets are being finalised.
Providers who act now with relevant insight and timing are best placed to build relationships before decision cycles close.
Honch tracks every HR leadership move globally, covering each hire, promotion, and funding round.
If you sell to HR, this is your competitive advantage.
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