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- Tasks: Lead the evolution of our people strategy and shape university culture.
- Company: Bournemouth University, a forward-thinking institution with a bold vision.
- Benefits: Join a dynamic team with opportunities for innovation and growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey at a university on the rise.
- Qualifications: Senior HR leadership experience and a track record of cultural change.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to impact the future of education and community.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Bournemouth University is entering an exciting new chapter. With a bold and distinctive BU2035 strategy and a clear vision for the future, we are redefining what it means to be a future-focused, globally connected institution. Our ambition is to provide learning and skills for a digital future, prepare graduates for a rapidly changing world, and create increased impact regionally and internationally while driving economic growth.
To help us deliver this transformation, we are now seeking to recruit an exceptional leader to join the University Executive Team as Chief People Officer (CPO). Reporting directly to the Vice-Chancellor, you will play a central role in shaping the culture and capability of the university at a time of significant change.
You will lead the evolution of our people strategy, ensuring that our HR function is modern, responsive, and aligned to the needs of a dynamic organisation. Working collaboratively across the institution, you will help embed frameworks that support performance and development, foster engagement, and create an environment where colleagues can thrive.
You will bring senior HR leadership experience in complex and comparable organisations, a track record of delivering cultural change, and strong operational capability. You will be able to evidence creating a high impact, customer-focussed, HR function that supports change and delivers continual improvement across a broad range of stakeholders. A proven ability to enhance staff engagement and deliver high-quality, value-for-money outcomes will also be vital.
This is a unique moment to join a university on the rise under new leadership. Bournemouth combines the energy of a thriving coastal town with the ambition of an institution investing heavily in innovation. We have recently secured major funding for the South West’s only Cyber Security and AI Centre and are driving forward plans to strengthen our position regionally, nationally, and internationally.
Our BU2035 strategy sets out a future focused on digital excellence, entrepreneurial growth, and partnerships that connect our students and research with industry. If you have the skills and experience we seek, and share our vision, passion and values, we would be keen to hear from you.
For further information, including details of how to apply, please visit.
Closing date: Friday 20 February 2026
Chief People Officer (CPO) in England employer: Bournemouth University
Contact Detail:
Bournemouth University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief People Officer (CPO) in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Bournemouth University on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the culture and what they’re really looking for in a Chief People Officer.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into their BU2035 strategy. We want to show that we’re not just interested in the role, but that we’re genuinely excited about their vision for the future and how we can contribute to it.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend to do a mock interview with us. This will help us articulate our experience in leading cultural change and delivering high-quality HR functions, which are key for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining Bournemouth University and being part of their exciting journey.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief People Officer (CPO) in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand Bournemouth University's vision and values. Tailor your application to reflect how your experience aligns with their BU2035 strategy and the exciting changes they’re implementing.
Showcase Your Experience: Highlight your senior HR leadership experience and any cultural change initiatives you've led. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to create a high-impact, customer-focused HR function that supports change.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. Bournemouth University is looking for someone who shares their passion and values, so don’t be afraid to express why you’re excited about this opportunity and how you can contribute to their mission.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves and shows that you’re serious about joining the team at Bournemouth University.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bournemouth University
✨Understand the BU2035 Strategy
Familiarise yourself with Bournemouth University's BU2035 strategy. Be ready to discuss how your vision for the Chief People Officer role aligns with their goals of digital excellence and cultural transformation.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your senior HR leadership experience. Highlight instances where you've successfully led cultural change and improved staff engagement in complex organisations.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working collaboratively across the institution, think of examples that showcase your ability to build relationships and foster teamwork. Be ready to discuss how you can embed frameworks that support performance and development.
✨Prepare for Questions on Change Management
Expect questions about your approach to managing change within an organisation. Prepare to discuss strategies you've implemented that have led to high-quality outcomes and continual improvement, especially in a dynamic environment.
