Alight fast-tracks innovation with C-Suite appointments
Alight, the HR tech and benefits administration firm, has made two key leadership appointments as it sharpens its focus on talent strategy and corporate innovation.
Donna Dorsey has taken on the role of chief human resources officer, stepping in to lead Alight’s global people strategy. Her remit covers the full HR spectrum – from talent development and organisational effectiveness to workplace culture and the overall employee experience.
Dorsey joins Alight at a turning point in its evolution. Previously Executive Vice President and Chief People and Culture Officer at International Motors, formerly Navistar, she was instrumental in shaping a company-wide HR strategy and embedding inclusive, high-performance cultures.
Aligning people programmes with business outcomes
Known for her blend of legal insight, coaching finesse and strategic HR vision, Dorsey has built a reputation for mentoring diverse teams and aligning people initiatives with business results.
“Donna brings an exceptional blend of HR leadership, coaching expertise, and legal acumen that aligns seamlessly with our culture and strategic goals,” said Dave Guilmette, CEO of Alight.
“I look forward to partnering with her as we continue evolving our employee experience and strengthening Alight as a destination for top talent.”
For her part, Dorsey sees the opportunity as both timely and transformative. “I’m honoured to join Alight at such a pivotal time in its growth journey,” she said. “Alight has a reputation for putting people first – both colleagues and clients – and I’m excited to build on that legacy.”
David Essary appointed chief strategy officer
In parallel, Alight is doubling down on corporate strategy with the appointment of David Essary as chief strategy officer, a role that will see him steer the company’s long-term direction, spanning M&A, product strategy, partnerships and commercial priorities.
Essary comes with a strong pedigree in healthcare and benefits, most recently serving as President of Allstate Health & Benefits. While there, he managed a US$2.6 billion business, drove digital transformation and oversaw multiple acquisitions.
His entrepreneurial credentials include founding several ventures such as Accord Systems, Zevo Benefits, Advice2Pay and Tricerion Group – each centred around tech-forward benefits administration and compliance solutions.
“David’s proven ability to drive growth and innovation makes him the ideal leader to guide Alight’s strategic focus and corporate innovation strategy,” said Guilmette.
Strategic transformation anchored in innovation
Essary’s appointment reinforces Alight’s commitment to innovation via its Alight Worklife platform – a connected, AI-powered ecosystem for employee wellbeing and HR services.
“Alight’s mission to deliver a Benefits Advantage deeply resonates with me,” said Essary. “I am eager to help our clients and their people thrive through our connected platform and powerful service delivery capabilities.”
With Dorsey nurturing internal culture and talent, and Essary fuelling the company’s growth engine, Alight appears poised to turn the corner from HR solutions provider to full-fledged strategic partner.