Adriana Robles is the Founder and CEO of HRIC Executive Search. Born and raised in México and proudly Canadian, she launched her firm in Vancouver in 2009, inspired by equality and talent, to support organizations looking for leaders who make a real difference. Guided by her Latin American roots, Canadian exposure, and global experience, she is committed to bridging North and South with purpose. As a Latina-Canadian founder, her cross-cultural heritage strengthens HRIC’s ability to navigate both North and South American markets, offering tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each region.
With over 20 years of experience, Adriana has partnered with leading global nonprofits, development banks, and private sector organizations—including CAF, Children International, and MEDA—building leadership teams that drive impact across Latin America, the Caribbean, Canada, the USA, and Europe. Her mission is clear: Connecting talent with purpose for a more equal world. Adriana’s focus on fairness, inclusivity, and representation ensures that every search reflects HRIC’s commitment to building stronger, more diverse leadership. Adriana is a strong advocate for the value of feminine leadership, understanding that qualities like empathy, resilience, and adaptability are key drivers of success in today’s complex environments. By bringing these strengths to the forefront, she helps build leadership teams that are effective, innovative, and capable of creating inclusive cultures where everyone can thrive.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with CXO Outlook Magazine, Adriana shared her professional trajectory, the inspiration behind establishing HRIC Executive Search, insights on diversity and inclusion, the secret mantra behind her success, her favorite quote, future plans, pearls of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
Hi Adriana. Please share your background and areas of expertise.
I was born and raised in Guadalajara, México, and I’m a proud Canadian citizen. My bi-cultural experience and over 20 years of international expertise in recruitment have allowed me to drive global strategies for nonprofits and the private sector. I’ve led cross-border searches and managed international teams across diverse geographies, guided by curiosity, perseverance, and a profound sense of social responsibility. I believe that when a team reflects the world around us, everyone wins. This principle is at the heart of HRIC Executive Search, a boutique firm that bridges North and South by connecting talent with purpose for a more equal world. I’ve partnered with global nonprofits, development banks, and private organizations to build leadership teams that create impactful, inclusive change.
I consider myself a professional coach and advisor in topics of HR, I am particularly passionate about recruitment, executive search and career coach . I believe that talent has no gender identity and am committed to using assessment techniques designed to evaluate candidates based on qualifications, competencies, and potential for success. By implementing robust frameworks to eliminate unconscious biases, we ensure fair evaluations that highlight the true potential of each candidate.
What was the inspiration behind establishing HRIC Executive Search? What is its mission and vision?
HRIC Executive Search was born from a deeply personal journey. After becoming a mother, I couldn’t imagine being away from my little ones while navigating life as an immigrant without family support in Canada. This pivotal moment inspired me to create something that allowed me to pursue my passion for talent acquisition while staying true to my values and priorities.
In 2009, HRIC Executive Search came to life—a boutique firm inspired by equality and talent, driven by the belief that leadership should reflect the diversity of the communities it serves. Witnessing the lack of representation in leadership roles, I envisioned a firm where every search would be guided by fairness and a commitment to transformative leadership.
Our mission is simple yet powerful: Connecting talent with purpose to drive a more equitable and sustainable world. We envision a future where leadership not only reflects the communities it serves but also empowers individuals to thrive. HRIC is dedicated to breaking down barriers and fostering an environment where visionary leaders can partner with organizations committed to creating meaningful change.
What are your thoughts on diversity and inclusion in your field? How important is it to have authentic conversations with leaders, professionals, and changemakers to create more acceptance across the globe?
Diversity and inclusion are no longer optional—they are imperatives for organizational success. In my field, ensuring diverse leadership requires challenging biases, fostering representation, advocating for feminist leadership, and building environments where every voice is valued and appreciated.
Authentic conversations are the cornerstone of this process. They create spaces for vulnerability, build trust, and open doors to innovative solutions that drive global acceptance and meaningful change. These conversations are where transformation begins.
You were recently recognized as one of the Top 50 Women Leaders for 2024. Our readers would love to know the secret mantra behind your success.
Dare to dream. “There is nothing greater than becoming the person you’ve always dreamed of being—it’s an act of self-love.” Say no to fear and yes to the uncertainty that helps us grow. Staying in a mode of “figuring things out” fosters resilience and transformation. As Neruda beautifully put it, we are here to live a life well-lived. So, dare to dream, and embrace the journey with all its challenges and beauty.
Is there a particular person you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are?
I’m deeply grateful to my Dad and brothers, who have always supported me and shaped my approach to leadership. They taught me the power of believing in myself, acting with authenticity and values, and striving for a lasting contribution. My Dad was an extraordinary human being. In my field of work, recruitment is not just about placing candidates—it’s about changing lives and impacting families. Every time I meet a candidate, I open my heart to understand their journey, motivations, and story, knowing that this connection is the foundation of meaningful work.
What is your favorite quote?
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt This quote resonates deeply with me. Dreams have an incredible power—they not only shape our future but also inspire us to break boundaries and create lasting change. When these dreams are nurtured in women, the impact is transformative. I truly believe that investing in women—their education, their careers, and their aspirations—is more than a smart decision; it’s an investment in a brighter, more equitable, and sustainable world.
What does the term “authentic leadership” mean to you?
Authentic leadership is about leading with integrity, empathy, and transparency. It’s recognizing the strength in vulnerability, earning trust, and backing up your values with consistent decisions and actions. For me, it’s about creating inclusive cultures where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued—leading by example and fostering a sense of belonging.
What are some of your passions outside of work? What do you like to do in your time off?
I love baking, cooking, and spending time in nature—activities that help me recharge and find inspiration. Hosting friends and family brings me immense joy, and I’m currently pursuing a Master’s in Mindfulness, which aligns with my belief in self-awareness as a cornerstone of leadership.
What is your biggest goal? Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now?
My goal is to continue enjoying the meaningful work we do at HRIC, which has truly been a dream come true. I aim to keep elevating the conversation around diversity in leadership and championing feminist leadership practices globally.
In five years, I envision HRIC becoming a recognized global leader in sustainable leadership transitions and setting new benchmarks for how diverse voices shape organizations. Personally, I hope to mentor more women leaders and showcase the brilliance of Latino talent on an international scale. With our bicultural expertise and a methodology tailored to cultural nuances, I see HRIC making a significant impact across various sectors and regions. My dream is to help organizations thrive by embracing equality and redefining leadership as their greatest strength.
What advice do you have for professionals who are just starting out?
Stay curious, embrace lifelong learning, and build meaningful connections. Seek mentors who challenge and inspire you, and always lead with authenticity. Your uniqueness is your greatest strength—lean into it as you navigate your career.