Kris Dunn: Transforming Recruitment with Data-Driven Strategies

Talent acquisition had long been regarded as a task reliant on human expertise, with recruiters and hiring managers wielding their experience and intuition to identify top talent. However, in recent years, the landscape has evolved dramatically, with technology emerging as a powerful ally in the recruitment process. This transformation has been spearheaded by individuals like Kris Dunn, the Senior Vice President of Global Talent Acquisition at Marriott International, whose expertise in leveraging technology has reshaped the way organizations approach hiring.

Kris’ journey in talent acquisition is a testament to his resilience and adaptability, qualities that have been honed through years of experience in diverse organisational settings. His corporate journey began in 1997 at BellSouth Mobility, where he served as the manager of HR, laying the groundwork for his future endeavours. From here, Kris’ journey went through Charter Communications, SourceMedical, DAXKO, and Kinetix. Subsequently, Kris founded HR Capitalist and Fistful of Talent—an entrepreneurial venture born out of his passion for innovation in the talent acquisition space.

He joined Marriott International in 2022, where his impact was immediate and profound. Leveraging his expertise in data-driven decision-making and strategic planning, he spearheaded initiatives to enhance the company’s talent acquisition efforts. As the Senior Vice President of Global Talent Acquisition at Marriott International, Kris oversees the company’s talent acquisition strategy on a global scale. His responsibilities include attracting, assessing, and hiring top talent across various roles and functions within the organisation. Kris’ leadership and vision have played a pivotal role in shaping Marriott’s workforce and driving organisational success. Under his leadership, Marriott saw significant improvements in key metrics such as time-to-fill, quality of hires, and diversity recruitment, cementing Kris’ reputation as a trailblazer in the field. 

At the core of Kris’ leadership philosophy is a belief in the power of people to drive organisational success. He champions a people-centric approach that prioritises employee engagement, empowerment, and development. By simplifying administrative processes and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation, Kris empowers his teams to unleash their full potential, driving sustainable results and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Kris’ expertise lies not only in leveraging technology to streamline recruitment processes but also in effectively managing change during technological transitions. As the driving force behind Marriott International’s talent acquisition strategies, Kris ensures that innovative tools and platforms are seamlessly integrated into the recruitment ecosystem. His pragmatic approach to technology adoption emphasises the human element, recognising that behind every resume and digital interface lies a unique individual with diverse talents and aspirations.

Beyond his role at Marriott International, Kris’ influence extends to the broader talent acquisition community through his thought leadership initiatives. As the host of the “BEST HIRE EVER” podcast and the founder of HR Capitalist and Fistful of Talent, he provides a platform for industry leaders to share insights and best practices for making impactful hires. Kris’ commitment to transparency and authenticity permeates every aspect of his work, resonating with talent acquisition professionals seeking practical guidance amidst a rapidly evolving landscape.

Kris is also a vocal advocate for data-driven approaches and innovative strategies in talent acquisition. Through his blogs, HR Capitalist and Fistful of Talent, he shares insights, best practices, and thought leadership with HR professionals worldwide. Kris’ commitment to transparency, collaboration, and continuous learning has made him a respected figure in the industry, driving positive change and innovation.

As Kris continues to navigate the complexities of talent acquisition in an increasingly digital world, his legacy of resilience, innovation, and impactful leadership will undoubtedly leave a lasting imprint on the profession. His journey in talent acquisition is characterised by his expertise in leveraging technology, his commitment to transparency and authenticity, and his unwavering dedication to empowering people.