What's Happening?
FactSet, a prominent global data and AI solutions provider for financial markets, has announced the appointment of Di Hirji as the new Chief People & Workforce Transformation Officer, effective August 3, 2026. Hirji will succeed Catrina Harding, who is
stepping down after three years but will remain in an advisory role during the transition. Di Hirji brings extensive experience from her previous role as Chief People Officer at S&P Global Market Intelligence and S&P Dow Jones Indices. Her career spans over 20 years, including senior HR leadership roles at Thomson Reuters and management consulting at Accenture. FactSet CEO Sanoke Viswanathan emphasized the importance of Hirji's role in the company's transformation into an AI-native organization, highlighting her expertise in organizational design and workforce development.
Why It's Important?
The appointment of Di Hirji is a strategic move by FactSet as it seeks to enhance its capabilities in AI and data solutions. As the company transitions to an AI-native model, the integration of human and AI capabilities becomes crucial. Hirji's experience in leading change and organizational development is expected to play a significant role in shaping FactSet's future workforce. This move reflects a broader trend in the industry where companies are increasingly focusing on AI and digital transformation to remain competitive. The success of this transition could set a precedent for other firms in the financial sector, influencing how they approach workforce transformation in the context of AI advancements.
What's Next?
As Di Hirji steps into her new role, she will likely focus on developing strategies to integrate AI into FactSet's operations while ensuring that the workforce is equipped with the necessary skills. This may involve training programs, restructuring teams, and fostering a culture that embraces technological innovation. The transition period with Catrina Harding will be critical in ensuring continuity and stability. Stakeholders, including employees and clients, will be watching closely to see how these changes impact FactSet's service offerings and market position. The company's ability to successfully navigate this transformation could influence its growth trajectory and competitive edge in the financial data and AI solutions market.
