Caryn McGarry
CHRO, ICF
Like many others in the Washington, D.C. area, ICF has navigated a year of unprecedented change — in its work, partnerships and pace of decisions shaping the industry.
“Shifting priorities and policies demanded real-time adaptability,” said ICF’s Caryn McGarry. “Our greatest achievement has been steering through that change with clarity and steadiness — keeping our people focused, our culture, and our organization aligned, even as the environment around us continues to evolve. As a result, our turnover remained well below the industry standard at this time.”
Why Watch
At ICF, McGarry’s team is deeply focused on talent readiness — not just as a concept, but as a strategic imperative. For several years, they have been anticipating how external forces like AI, rapid skill evolution, and generational shifts are reshaping the workforce. “We’ve moved past beyond reacting to change — we’re designing for it,” McGarry said.
McGarry and her team’s strategy centers on preparing leaders and teams to thrive in a future defined by transformation. They are accelerating leadership development and building the capabilities needed to lead in an AI-augmented world. They are also investing in skills readiness, rethinking how they define roles, and aligning talent systems to meet the demands of a dynamic labor market — including honing their focus on early talent.
McGarry and her team are leading with purpose, embedding agility into their practices and ensuring ICF’s people are equipped to navigate disruption with confidence. In a time of rapid change, the HR team is not missing the moment to steer ahead for a strong future.
“At a company like ICF, our people’s bold ideas build the products and services we sell. That means our job in HR isn’t just to support talent — it’s to create the conditions where bold thinking thrives. I’m proud of the work we’re doing to invest in our people, elevate their voices, and help them shape the future of our business,” McGarry said.
Fun fact: This year, McGarry officially became an empty nester — twice! With both of her daughters off chasing their dreams, McGarry and her husband are rediscovering life at a different pace. They’ve been spending more time with friends and getting away when they can to the beach or the lake. “We’re soaking up the quiet, reconnecting, and learning how to enjoy the stillness after years of sideline cheering and getting our girls ready for college this summer,” McGarry said.