At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the people strategy and drive cultural development across multiple sites.
- Company: Join a dynamic organisation in East Yorkshire focused on innovation and community impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy 37 days' leave, a market-leading pension, and flexible benefits.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in a progressive environment with a people-first mindset.
- Qualifications: CIPD/CMI-qualified with senior HR leadership experience and strong knowledge of employment law.
- Other info: Ideal for passionate leaders wanting to shape inclusive, high-performance cultures.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 90000 £ per year.
Location: East Yorkshire (with travel across regional sites)
Salary & Benefits: Competitive salary of £80,000 – £90,000 + comprehensive benefits package
We are supporting a dynamic and forward-thinking organisation based in East Yorkshire in the search for a Chief People Officer (CPO). This is a senior, board-level position offering the opportunity to shape and deliver the people strategy for a large and complex organisation with significant regional impact.
Operating across multiple sites within East Yorkshire, the organisation continues to grow through innovation, operational excellence, and a commitment to delivering outstanding outcomes. With a focus on digital transformation and future-ready learning environments, this values-led business has a strong sense of purpose and community.
The successful candidate will work closely with the CEO and executive team, driving cultural and organisational development and embedding a people-first mindset at all levels.
Key Areas of Focus:- Strategic Direction: Lead the development and implementation of a modern, forward-thinking people strategy aligned to organisational priorities and long-term ambitions.
- Culture & Engagement: Foster a high-performing, inclusive culture that builds trust, promotes wellbeing, and drives meaningful engagement.
- Learning & Development: Strengthen the organisation’s approach to staff development, talent pipelines, and career progression.
- Wellbeing & Reward: Oversee a competitive and inclusive benefits offering, with a strong focus on employee wellbeing and engagement.
- HR Operations & Compliance: Ensure HR, Payroll, and Health & Safety functions are compliant, efficient, and future-focused.
- Leadership & Influence: Lead and inspire a multidisciplinary team of around 40 professionals, promoting collaboration, innovation, and excellence.
- CIPD and/or CMI-qualified, with a proven track record in senior HR leadership roles (e.g., CPO, HR Director).
- Experienced in leading culture transformation and large-scale change programmes.
- Strong knowledge of employment law, workforce planning, employee engagement, and recruitment strategies.
- Demonstrated success in shaping L&D strategies and embedding development frameworks.
- Comfortable overseeing Health & Safety functions and ensuring regulatory compliance.
- An influential communicator with the presence, credibility, and confidence to operate at board level.
Why Apply? This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact within a progressive and ambitious organisation. In return, you’ll receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- 37 days’ annual leave (plus bank holidays and seasonal closure)
- Market-leading pension scheme
- Enhanced pay for maternity, adoption, and sick leave
- Life assurance and employee assistance support
- Health and wellbeing plans (including medical and dental cover)
- Flexible benefits including Cycle to Work scheme and staff discounts
This role is ideal for a people-focused leader passionate about building inclusive, high-performance cultures and shaping the strategic direction of a values-driven organisation.
Chief People Officer employer: Castle Employment Agency Ltd
Contact Detail:
Castle Employment Agency Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief People Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the HR field, especially those who have experience in senior leadership roles. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in people strategy.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the organisation thoroughly to understand its culture, values, and recent initiatives. This knowledge will help you tailor your conversations and demonstrate your genuine interest in shaping their people strategy.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in leading culture transformation and change programmes. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your ability to drive engagement and foster a high-performing culture.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your understanding of compliance and regulatory issues in HR. Being able to articulate how you would ensure HR operations are efficient and future-focused will set you apart as a candidate who can handle the complexities of the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief People Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in senior HR leadership roles, particularly focusing on culture transformation and large-scale change programmes. Use specific examples that demonstrate your strategic direction and people-first mindset.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for building inclusive cultures and shaping strategic directions. Address how your qualifications, such as being CIPD and/or CMI-qualified, align with the requirements of the Chief People Officer role.
Showcase Relevant Achievements: When detailing your work history, emphasise achievements related to employee engagement, learning and development strategies, and compliance with HR operations. Quantify your successes where possible to make a stronger impact.
Prepare for Potential Questions: Anticipate questions that may arise during the interview process regarding your approach to fostering high-performing cultures and your experience with health and safety compliance. Prepare thoughtful responses that reflect your leadership style and vision.
How to prepare for a job interview at Castle Employment Agency Ltd
✨Understand the Organisation's Values
Before the interview, take some time to research the organisation's values and mission. As a Chief People Officer, you'll need to align your strategies with these principles, so be prepared to discuss how your vision complements their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Highlight your previous leadership roles and experiences in driving cultural transformation. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams through change and fostered an inclusive environment.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Expect questions about your approach to developing and implementing people strategies. Think about how you would address the organisation's long-term ambitions and be prepared to discuss innovative ideas that could enhance employee engagement and wellbeing.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
As this role requires influencing at board level, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Prepare to discuss how you would communicate complex HR concepts to various stakeholders, ensuring everyone is on board with your vision.