One of the world’s largest global technology companies, Accenture, stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence in the ever-evolving landscape of digital transformation. For 36 years, Ellyn Shook has been at the helm of driving this growth and innovation as a visionary leader as its Chief Leadership and Human Resources Officer. With an unwavering commitment to fostering inclusive workplaces and driving strategic transformation, Ellyn’s influence extends far beyond traditional HR functions, shaping workplace cultures, talent development strategies, and diversity initiatives with unparalleled strategic acumen.
Ellyn bears the weighty responsibility of guiding the professional and personal success of Accenture’s vast workforce of over 699,000 individuals worldwide. Her role transcends conventional HR functions; she is a catalyst for change, leading a global team of HR leaders in reimagining leadership and talent practices to create a truly human work environment in the digital age. Ellyn’s strategic vision is instrumental in fuelling Accenture’s ability to live up to its purpose: to deliver on the promise of technology and human ingenuity, drive innovation, and foster a culture of inclusivity and excellence.
At the core of Ellyn’s leadership philosophy lies a profound commitment to Accenture’s core values. She is a staunch advocate for inclusion and diversity, firmly believing that diversity fosters innovation and drives business success. Under her guidance, Accenture has garnered widespread recognition as an employer of choice, celebrated for its unwavering dedication to creating a workplace where every individual feels valued, respected, and Fully empowered to bring their genuine selves to the workplace.
Ellyn’s influence extends far beyond Accenture’s organisational boundaries. She is a respected author and thought leader, frequently sharing her expertise on critical topics such as the future of work, inclusion and diversity, and responsible leadership. Through her insights, gleaned from years of talent and culture transformation at Accenture, Ellyn advises clients on leading large-scale organisational change, empowering them to thrive in an ever-evolving business landscape.
Ellyn, a member of Accenture’s esteemed Global Management Committee and Investment Committee, plays a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of the organisation. Her advocacy for inclusion and diversity is not merely rhetoric but a guiding principle that permeates Accenture’s culture and operations. Beyond Accenture, Ellyn serves on the boards of prominent organisations such as BRP Group, Paradigm for Parity, and the HR Policy Association, further amplifying her impact on the global HR landscape.
Ellyn’s journey within Accenture is a testament to her exceptional leadership prowess. Prior to assuming her current role, she served as Senior Managing Director—Human Resources, where she led Accenture’s Human Resources Centres of Expertise and the Human Resources Business Partner Organisation. In this capacity, Ellyn played a pivotal role in designing Accenture’s talent architecture, shaping total rewards programmes, and driving talent development initiatives.
Her tenure as the Global Human Resources Lead from 2004 to 2011 saw her spearheading critical functions such as career and performance management, total rewards, employee engagement, and mergers and acquisitions. Ellyn’s contributions were pivotal in shaping Accenture’s HR landscape, laying the foundation for its continued success in talent management and development.
Ellyn’s journey from HR Director to Partner underscores her unwavering commitment to excellence. She led human resources for Accenture’s New York office for five years, where she played a pivotal role in implementing executive compensation and equity programmes, including equity grants during the company’s IPO in 2001.
Recognised as HR Executive of the Year by Human Resource Executive in 2020 and inducted as a Fellow in the National Academy of Human Resources in 2021, Ellyn’s accolades are a testament to her enduring impact on the HR profession. Armed with a Bachelor of Science degree from Purdue University, Ellyn continues to redefine the standards of global HR leadership, leaving an indelible mark on Accenture’s culture, talent development, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
In Ellyn, we find not just a leader but a visionary architect of global HR leadership. Her multifaceted approach, encompassing strategic foresight, talent development, and a steadfast commitment to inclusion and diversity, continues to inspire and elevate the HR profession on a global scale. As Accenture charts a course towards a future defined by innovation and human-centricity, Ellyn’s leadership remains a beacon of inspiration, guiding the organisation towards greater heights of success and excellence.
