Navigate Forward is proud to announce that owner and CEO Anne deBruin Sample has been named one of Twin Cities Business’ 2026 Notable Leaders in HR Services and Solutions, a recognition honoring executives who are shaping the future of human resources through innovation, leadership, and measurable impact.
The list recognizes standout leaders in HR services advancing talent strategy, organizational health, and leadership effectiveness across the region. Sample’s inclusion reflects her long-standing commitment to helping organizations navigate executive transitions with confidence and supporting senior leaders at pivotal career moments.
As CEO of Navigate Forward, Sample leads a firm dedicated to high-touch, outcome-based career transition and leadership advisory services. She is a career transition expert with prior leadership roles at PepsiAmericas, Caribou Coffee, and Whirlpool Corporation. That experience shapes her strategic approach to guiding organizations through change.
Under her leadership, Navigate Forward has expanded upon the strong reputation established by its founders, broadening its service offerings to support executives and organizations through every major career transition. From onboarding and executive leader development and retention to talent mobilization and executive outplacement, the firm continues to deliver personalized, high-touch guidance that elevates the transition experience and helps protect organizational culture during times of change.
This recognition from Twin Cities Business highlights the growing importance of thoughtful HR leadership as companies adapt to evolving workforce expectations. Naming Sample among the region’s notable leaders in HR services underscores her professional influence. Further, it reinforces Navigate Forward’s continued momentum as a trusted partner to organizations nationwide.
Other honorees include Leah Davis of Abdo, Elizabeth Hang of Robert Half, Erin Hargrove of Lakeside HR Group, Nikki Hauck of Oppidan, Abigayle Oxborough of Sugar Lake Lodge and Abby Ox Consulting, Tanja Piccini of Fairview Health Services, Kelly Rongstad of Bold Orange, and Jessica Westberg of Media Bridge.
Navigate Forward congratulates all of these outstanding HR leaders on this well-deserved honor and celebrates the meaningful difference their leadership makes for clients, colleagues, and the broader HR community.
