HDI’s Top 25 Thought Leaders of 2026
Anthony Orr, Sr. Business IAM Advisor, Okta
“A committed knowledge-sharer, Anthony mentors professionals, publishes insights, and actively contributes to advancing the field. Their professional achievements demonstrate sustained leadership. With a proven track record of visionary guidance, industry contribution, and collaborative excellence, this nominee is highly deserving of recognition.”
Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn
Christopher Chagnon, Senior Development Applications Engineer, MathWorks
“His creative approaches challenge common thinking, leaving people intrigued and inspired. He applies his deep technical knowledge and design sensibilities to reimagine ITSM practices and transform user experiences by focusing on human-centric design, AI and Gamification. His industry impact is proven by the numerous awards he has received. He energetically shares knowledge through articles, podcasts, and speaking engagements. His professional achievements as an ITSM architect, Applications Engineer and PhD Researcher demonstrate his unique blend of academic rigor and technical expertise.”
Connect with Christopher on LinkedIn
Claire Agutter, Founder & Director, Scopism
Claire is a globally recognized SIAM and service management leader whose work has transformed industry standards, education and collaboration. As architect of all versions of the SIAM Body of Knowledge, most recently a suite of 16 publications developed with 75+ contributors globally, she's led the evolution of SIAM capability and practice. Claire has built a free, international learning community with 4,500+ members, hosting events, podcasts and mentoring to support organizational adoption and sourcing transformation.
Connect with Claire on LinkedIn
Doug Tedder, Business Associate, Tedder Consulting and HDI
“Doug is extremely active with HDI performing blog posts, consulting work, training (Primary instructor for SCM), presentations at conferences, and also active within the ITIL/ITSM Community. Doug recently was awarded the HDI Lifetime Achievement Award this past year. I have worked with Doug personally this past year on the SCM content refresh project where his knowledge, thought leadership, content contributions, and collaborations have been first rate. Today he led the presentation of the new SCM content and did a fantastic job!
Connect with Doug on LinkedIn
Josh Streets, Founder, QX Now
“Josh continues to guide our ITSM industry and community on AI and make us realize we’re not all alone. I follow his content and there’s always a nugget or tool or thought process I can borrow from him. I hear people I’ve known in the HDI community for a while say that he is THE AI guy. Looking forward to more content or videos from him and HDI on AI in 2026!”
Connect with Josh on LinkedIn
Linda Lenox, Program Delivery Director, Halls Culligan
"Linda Lenox exemplifies thought leadership by translating emerging trends into practical frameworks teams can immediately apply. Her industry impact is evident in the measurable improvements in service quality, customer experience, and collaboration driven by her guidance. She is a relentless knowledge sharer—speaking, mentoring, and creating resources that elevate peers at every level. Through her professional achievements and leadership, Linda builds high-performing, inclusive teams, champions innovation, and consistently models the collaborative, customer-centric mindset that defines the HDI community."
Connect with Linda on LinkedIn
Marie DiRuzza, Director, Campus Technology and Media Services, Mt Holyoke College
"Marie is a stalwart and pioneering expert that translates complex processes into simple and easy to understand explanations. Marie is always on the forefront while also helping to remind us why we have a foundation the way we do."
Connect with Marie on LinkedIn
Matt Beran, IT Industry Analyst, InvGate
“Matt is an ambassador for our professions. Whether it's leading the Open Service Community or presenting on Service Management at Global Events, Matt brings service management to the world at large in an inclusive manner.”
Connect with Matt on LinkedIn
Michelle Major-Goldsmith, Director, Service Integration and Systems, Kinetic IT
“Michelle has delivered massive value to the SIAM community in 2025 as one of the architects of the SIAM body of knowledge refresh. Going above and beyond in addition to her day job, she has shared her leadership, knowledge and time in the most generous way.”
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn
Monica Morrison, Director, Walkup and Desktop Support, IT Delivery at Marriott International
“Monica is recognized for her thoughtful, people-first leadership style and her commitment to excellence. Her influence shows up through her mentorship and leadership in the HDI Local Chapters community. Her steady focus is inspiring and empowering.”
Connect with Monica on LinkedIn
N.J. Robinson, Hi-Tech Leadership
“N.J. is a standout for his continued contribution to the community through leadership workshops, mentorship of HDI community members, and service with conference speaker selection.”
Connect with N.J. on LinkedIn
Pardip Mahay, IT Service Desk Manager, NHS @ SWBH Trust
“Pardip truly deserves recognition. They think ahead in ways that challenge old assumptions and spark fresh ideas that move the industry forward. Their work makes a measurable difference, improving processes, inspiring innovation, and setting higher standards for others to reach. They share knowledge freely, offering insights that help colleagues grow. Their professional achievements show dedication, discipline, and excellence. Yet it is their steady, authentic leadership that stands out most. They encourage collaboration, support their teams, and push consistently for meaningful, positive change across the field. Their impact continues to grow and shape the industry's future in truly lasting ways.”
Connect with Pardip on LinkedIn
Patrycja Sobera, SVP, Digital Workplace, Unisys
“Patrycja is a TRUE catalyst for change, turning bold ideas into real-world impact. Her thought leadership drives innovative service strategies that elevate customer experience and set new industry standards. Patrycja’s influence extends beyond the organization, shaping best practices that others aspire to follow. A natural knowledge sharer, she empowers teams through mentoring and actionable insights, creating a culture of growth. From leading high-stakes transformation projects to inspiring collaboration across global teams, Patrycja’s achievements speak volumes.”
Connect with Patrycja on LinkedIn
Randy Celaya, Business Associate, TASC Training and Consulting and HDI
“His panel discussions with other long time HDI alumni demonstrate his understanding of the support industry as well as his caring for those in support roles, both beginner and longtime associates. He is amazing with how he edifies and promotes others instead of focusing on his own knowledge and accomplishments, and it is incredible to watch how many people gravitate toward his positivity.”
Connect with Randy on LinkedIn
Rina Brahmbhatt, College Professor
“Rina is a key driver in the ITSM space. Not only did she release a relevant book to anyone entering the field, she also teaches students and trains professionals on the topic. Rina is also on the board of HDI NYC Metro and has been a valuable person in getting the chapter up and running with some momentum.”
Connect with Rina on LinkedIn
Rocky McGuire, Assistant Vice President - IT Governance, Corporate One Federal Credit Union
"Rocky has an attitude that is infectious, always sharing positive messaging that is encouraging to any support leader. He always shines a light on HDI and the industry- volunteering to help support the local chapters and serve on the conference advisory board.
Hosting Bytes and Banter, Rocky brings a ton of knowledge to the industry through his interview style, helping guests share their stories and insights. He speaks at conferences (even when asked at the last minute for summit he didn’t hesitate to say yes.) Rocky is someone who will never call himself a thought leader but deserves it."
Connect with Rocky on LinkedIn
Sean McClean, Master Technical Trainer and Training Evangelist, Service Now
“It was such a treat reconnecting with Sean at Service Management World last year. He is an absolute joy and such a smart, insightful dude. Sean is a huge asset to the service management industry and an active community builder. A thought leader indeed!”
Connect with Sean on LinkedIn
Simon Dorst, Director, Service Management Education, Kinetic IT
“Simon is one of the lead architects on the 2025 SIAM Body of Knowledge, generously sharing his time, expertise and experience in addition to a challenging day job to deliver real value to the ITSM community.”
Connect with Simon on LinkedIn
Simon Lara, Chief Information Officer, SPS Pool Care
"Simon is someone who is doing creative things with technology in his role. He is working to get more speaking opportunities to share the creative things he's doing but if you meet Simon, he quickly becomes someone that you know is showing up to give. He has been in IT Leadership for years but is not a voice many know – but is one that has a lot to offer. When the opportunity presents itself, Simon shares insight from a CIO view that helps others navigate the complexity of driving outcomes with meaningful support. Simon deserves a bit more spotlight!"
Connect with Simon on LinkedIn
Stacy Thomas, Service Management Specialist, Kinetic IT
“Stacy is a wonderful weaver of nearly two decades in IT storytelling, and a passion for human-centred Service Management. An ITIL trainer and ambassador, she's also a strong community member of SIAM and the Open Service Community. Has been an itSMF Australia Contributor of the Year (24). A neuro-diverse, mental health and wellbeing industry advocate, a quiet person but a voice worth hearing for now and our future generations. She brings a freshness that is authentic and practical.”
Connect with Stacy on LinkedIn
Susan Smith, Program Manager and vCIO, GTS Technology Solutions
“Susan's #1 Clifton Strengths is “Learning”. She believes in it and shares throughout the IT Support Industry. Susan is a team player, focused on leading with integrity and clarity. Her goal is to leave a legacy smarter, kinder and more empowered support staff.”
Connect with Susan on LinkedIn
Tarun Dewat, Head of IT Service Management, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust
"Tarun champions ITIL‑aligned governance and automation initiatives, including self‑service unlock and workflow optimization.
He leads cross‑functional catch‑ups and publishes transparent performance packs, fostering collaboration and continuous improvement. Tarun also oversees a broad ITSM portfolio, reducing ticket PUPY and sustaining SLA compliance while mentoring teams and embedding best practice across the Trust."
Connect with Tarun on LinkedIn
Tom Wilk, Data Center Operations Manager, Giant Eagle
“Tom is a steady, trusted voice in the HDI community, known for his passion for developing people and challenging traditional ways of thinking. His energy, authenticity, and focus on helping others makes our industry better. His leadership lessons in particular really resonate with the HDI audience!”
Connect with Tom on LinkedIn
Tyler Russell, Information Technology Program Manager, The MIL Corporation
“Tyler’s hard work and leadership in the HDI Local Chapters community were tremendous in 2025. Not only did he launch a successful mentorship cohort, but he also stepped up and took the responsibility of national treasurer. In his short tenure in the role, he has already made a massive difference. Beyond his local chapter involvement, he’s actively involved in HDI, volunteering at conferences, speaking on panels. I really enjoyed learning from his candid take on career paths at the panel session he was part of during SupportWorld Live. Tyler is a smart dude and an asset to our profession.”
Connect with Tyler on LinkedIn
Vicki Rogers, Director of Service Management, Georgia Institute of Technology
“Vicki is a joy to be around and work with! She’s also the real deal. Her energy, wisdom, and consistency are an asset to the HDI Local Chapters community and our industry as a whole. She’d likely never call herself a thought leader, but she certainly is one.”
Connect with Vicki on LinkedIn