Dave Ulrich’s 1997 book Human Resource Champions revolutionized the function by introducing the shared services HR model. The centralization of HR’s administrative functions and creation of specialist Centers of Excellence (COEs) promised to allow a new type of HR professional, the HR Business Partner, to embed within a business unit and provide high level strategic consultations. Nearly 20 years later, while multiple industry surveys indicate that HR capabilities continue to improve, most companies and even HR departments themselves believe that the HRBP’s role as a true strategic partner has yet to be fully realized. This executive summary surveys the findings of consulting firms, corporate executives, HR thought leaders, and academics on how HRBPs can more effectively provide strategic value for their clients.