Willis Towers Watson hires new global CHRO

Worldwide advisory, broking and solutions business Willis Towers Watson (WTW) announced that it has selected Kristy Banas as its new global chief human resources officer (CHRO).

Banas currently serves as the organisation’s global talent adviser for human capital and benefits, and was recently the global sponsor of human resources integration planning. She will assume the CHRO role today (16 August) and succeed Anne Bodnar, who will remain as the company’s chief administrative officer.

Following her joining WTW in 2011, she has most recently led global HR teams responsible for workforce planning and talent engagement, as well as for colleague development, retention, coaching and advising. Additionally, she has led many HR integration planning and implementation activities.

Banas also has served in other HR leadership roles at the business, including for global total rewards, HR business office, operations and technology, corporate functions and global operations improvement. Prior to joining WTW, she held several HR leadership roles.

CEO John Haley commented that he is confident Banas will lead the organisation in delivering a “compelling and inclusive” colleague experience for current and future talent.

“Kristy brings over 20 years of diverse HR leadership experience to her new role. She has been integral to the growth and evolution of Willis Towers Watson’s people practices as we’ve grown through large combinations over the years,” he said.

Banas added that in an “increasingly competitive” talent market, the attraction and retention of high-performing diverse talent is a critical differentiator for the business in delivering solutions and service for clients.

“I am passionate about the value HR brings as a vital enabler for business performance through strategic and innovative talent plans. I am honored to have the opportunity to lead Willis Towers Watson’s outstanding HR team as we help shape the future of the company,” she said.