Chief People Officer (CPO)

Location: Multiple Campuses across North of England
Salary: 80,000-90,000
Contract: Permanent
Start Date: February 2025
Reports to: CEO
Team Size: 17

An ambitious, forward-thinking and values-driven organisation is seeking an exceptional Chief People Officer (CPO) to shape and lead its people strategy at the highest level. As a key member of the executive team, you will play a pivotal role in driving cultural transformation, fostering an inclusive and high-performing workplace and ensuring that people remain at the heart of organisational success.

This organisation is a leader in the education and training sector, dedicated to empowering individuals, strengthening communities and delivering exceptional learning experiences. With a reputation for innovation and a commitment to inclusivity, it is on a journey to become an outstanding provider that sets the standard for excellence in the sector. People are its greatest asset, and investing in a thriving, engaged workforce is fundamental to achieving its ambitious long-term vision.

This is an opportunity to make a lasting impact at board level. As Chief People Officer, you will report directly to the CEO, working in close collaboration with senior leadership to develop and execute a progressive, data-driven and strategic approach to people and culture. You will lead a high-performing team of 17 HR professionals, overseeing employee engagement, wellbeing, learning and development, organisational design, compliance and operational excellence.

This role is about more than policies and procedures, it is about shaping a workplace where ambition thrives, talent is nurtured and every individual has the opportunity to grow and succeed. You will be instrumental in ensuring that the people strategy aligns seamlessly with the organisation's vision for the future, embedding a culture of excellence, innovation and inclusivity.

If you are a visionary HR leader with a track record of delivering transformational change at the highest level, we want to hear from you.

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and deliver a forward-thinking, systems-driven people strategy aligned with the organisation's goals and values.
• Culture and Engagement: Foster an inclusive, high-performing workplace culture and lead initiatives to enhance employee engagement and trust.
• Learning and Development: Rebuild and strengthen the Learning and Development function, creating opportunities for staff progression and growth.
• Wellbeing and Benefits: Oversee wellbeing programmes and competitive benefits, ensuring they are impactful and equitable.
• Compliance and Safety: Lead the Health and Safety Directorate and maintain a robust, legally compliant HR framework.
• Team Leadership: Inspire and mentor a team of 17 HR professionals, promoting innovation and collaboration.

Person Specification:

• Proven success as a Chief People Officer, HR Director, or senior HR leader.
• A strong track record in cultural transformation, employee engagement and HR compliance.
• Demonstrable experience in Learning and Development integration.
• A strategic, results-oriented mindset with outstanding interpersonal skills.
• Expertise in employment law, compliance and risk management.
• A passion for creating inclusive, empowering workplaces where people thrive.

Why Join Us?

We value our people and provide a vibrant, inclusive workplace where innovation and ambition are celebrated.

In return for your skills and experience, we offer a highly competitive benefits package, including:

• Generous Annual Leave: 30 days of annual leave (pro rata), plus bank holidays and Christmas closure days.
• Pension Membership with excellent employer contributions.
• Enhanced Pay Schemes for maternity, adoption, and occupational sick leave.
• Life Assurance and Death Grant for peace of mind.
• Health and Wellbeing Support: Access to Medical Cash Plan, Dental Cash Plan, and a free 24-hour confidential employee helpline.
• Lifestyle Benefits: Cycle to Work Scheme, savings schemes and staff discounts on campus facilities, including Hair & Beauty, Bakery and Gym.

Ready to Lead the Evolution of our People Strategy?

If you're an ambitious leader ready to shape the people strategy of a transformative organisation, we want to hear from you. Even if you don't tick every box, we encourage you to apply, we are open to investing in the right person.

Know someone perfect for this role? Share this opportunity and help us find an inspiring leader who will drive our vision forward.

We are committed to Prevent Duty, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and British Values within the workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

All posts are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references covering the last two years of employment, and online screening. Additional checks may be required.

Apply today and be part of a team that transforms lives.

Important Notice

Dovetail and Slate is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, applicants and clients to share this commitment.

This role may involve work with under 18's or vulnerable adults. Any appointment will be made subject to strict vetting and screening checks and receipt of a satisfactory enhanced DBS check. Dovetail and Slate ltd acts as an Employment Agency (perm) and an Employment Business (temp/contract).

Because education matters. Dovetail and Slate Limited ((phone number removed)) acts as an Employment Agency.

Because education matters. Dovetail and Slate Limited ((phone number removed)) acts as an Employment Business.

Because education matters. Dovetail and Slate Limited ((phone number removed)) acts as an Employment Agency.