SHRM Linkage taps new CEO

Alexandria-based leadership development firm SHRM Linkage has appointed Tracey Walker as its new CEO, effective. Dec. 3.

She succeeded former Linkage CEO Tamala Oates-Forney, who, according to her LinkedIn profile, is now self-employed. Linkage did not immediately return requests for comment.

Founded in 1988, Linkage focuses on delivering research-driven talent and leadership development services. The company was acquired by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) in 2022. At the time, it had more than 250 clients.

“It is my privilege to assume the role of CEO at SHRM Linkage,” said Walker in a statement. “This is a critical moment for organizations to elevate how they develop leaders and unlock the full potential of their talent to drive performance. We are committed to expanding the transformative impact Linkage delivers to organizations around the world. Together, we are setting a new standard for leadership excellence.”

Walker brings more than two decades of experience in business, government and professional services. Before joining Linkage, Walker spent 19 years as a principal and chief culture officer at global accounting and consulting firm RSM, followed by a serving as chief experience officer at management consultancy Alvarez and Marsal.

“We are thrilled to welcome Tracey as the new leader of Linkage,” said Syed Wasey, SHRM’s acting executive vice president of global business, in a statement. “With a proven record of enterprise transformation, cross-sector impact and award-winning results, she is uniquely positioned to drive SHRM Linkage into its next era — strengthening leadership pipelines, advancing organizational trust and driving sustained innovation and growth for organizations worldwide.”

Walker has been named one of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ 50 Most Powerful Women in Accounting, received the Association of Government Accountants President’s Award and was honored as the Association of Latino Professionals for America’s 2025 Executive of the Year.

Based in Alexandria, SHRM is a human resources and people management association that represents nearly 340,000 HR professionals in 180 countries.