Sharon Carter Named 2026 Human Resources Leader of the Year

The Georgia Department of Administrative Services (DOAS) is proud to announce that Sharon Carter, director of Enterprise Talent Management Services in the Human Resources Administration Division, has been named the 2026 Human Resources Leader of the Year by the Georgia Council for Human Resources (GCHR).

Presented as part of the GCHR Excellence in HR Awards, the Human Resources Leader of the Year Award recognizes an established, accomplished, and dedicated professional who provides leadership across the full range of human resources management responsibilities within an organization.

Sharon was selected for her exceptional service, extensive expertise, and steadfast commitment to Georgia’s human resources community.

With more than 35 years of service to the State of Georgia – including more than 25 years in human resources – Sharon has earned a reputation as a professional, proactive, and personable leader. She is widely respected throughout Georgia’s public- and private-sector HR communities for her willingness to share her knowledge, provide guidance, and support the success of others.

Sharon leads by example, approaching every situation with integrity and balancing the needs of employees, leaders, agencies, and other stakeholders. Her leadership philosophy reflects her belief that leading others is not simply about providing direction, but also about ensuring people have the support they need to succeed.

In addition to her responsibilities at DOAS, Carter played an important role in the statewide implementation of GA@WORK Human Capital Management. Serving as a DOAS business subject-matter expert and workstream lead, she provided operational guidance and helped prepare HR directors and state agencies for new processes and ways of working. Her contributions supported several critical Human Capital Management areas, including absence management, benefits, HCM core, recruiting, time tracking, payroll, and talent management.

Sharon’s commitment to the profession extends well beyond her agency responsibilities. She serves as an officer on the Executive Leadership Team of the SHRM Georgia State Council and as an officer on the Executive Board of the South Metro Human Resources Association. She is also an active member and past president of the Greater Henry County Chapter of SHRM and a member of SHRM Atlanta.

Throughout her distinguished career, Sharon has remained committed to service, collaboration, and the success of others. Her dedication to developing people, strengthening organizations, and advancing the human resources profession exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding leader.

Please join DOAS in congratulating Sharon Carter on being named the GCHR 2026 Human Resources Leader of the Year and celebrating this well-deserved recognition of her leadership, service, and lasting contributions to the State of Georgia.