Hanson Search is partnering with RWS Global to appoint a Chief People Officer in Milton Keynes and London. RWS Global is a founder-led, private equity-backed creator of live entertainment for the world’s biggest theme parks, cruise lines and sporting events. More than 8,000 performers, technicians and operators bring its work to life in around 60 countries, with hubs across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific.
About the Chief People Officer Role
In April 2025, RWS became Merlin Entertainments’ preferred entertainment production partner for six resorts, including the Legoland parks, Alton Towers and Chessington, with more than 100 experiences in development in the first year alone. Partnerships like this are taking RWS from producing seasonal shows to employing frontline teams in the venues it serves.
That growth has created the need for a new kind of people leadership. As its first Chief People Officer, you will design the workforce model and employee experience for a business that is changing shape, so that RWS has the right people, culture and leadership to win. You will connect casting, HR, operations, production and finance around one shared workforce strategy, from a performer’s first audition to the site manager running a venue every day.
You will sit on the executive leadership team, supported by senior leaders who run HR and casting, so your time goes into strategy, culture and capability, not administration.
Why This Chief People Officer Role Stands Out
The culture is fast-moving and hands-on, and ideas land quickly. You will not start from a blank page, as a new job architecture, modern HR systems and regular engagement surveys are already in place. There is real scope to build, from a global recognition programme and employer brand to workforce analytics and succession planning. A new Milton Keynes campus opens in January.
Chief People Officer Responsibilities
- Design and scale a global workforce strategy covering planning, segmentation and forecasting
- Shape the frontline employee experience, from onboarding and career pathways to retention and engagement
- Lead organisational development, including leadership capability, succession and high-potential programmes
- Define and evolve the culture, employee value proposition and employer brand across geographies
- Build workforce analytics that turn data into decisions
- Align casting, HR, operations, production and finance around one workforce strategy
HR Leadership Experience and Skills
- Bring senior people leadership from attractions, live entertainment or a related sector such as cruise, hospitality or live events
- Show a record of building or scaling a workforce model for a large frontline population across several countries
- Apply strong organisational development, culture and employer brand expertise
- Influence confidently at executive level and across functions you do not own
- Build and develop strong senior teams
- Thrive in a fast-moving, hands-on and commercially aware environment
What’s on Offer in Milton Keynes
This is a chance to take a new seat on the executive leadership team and shape the people strategy of a growing global business from the start.
The package includes a competitive salary and benefits.
The role requires this person to work from the Milton Keynes office a minimum of three days a week.
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Chief People Officer, RWS Global, Milton Keynes & London employer: Hanson Search Ltd
As a new advisory firm located in the heart of Central London, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and collaborative work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. With a strong focus on professional development, we offer tailored training opportunities and encourage our team members to take ownership of their projects, ensuring they can make a meaningful impact in their roles. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking organisation where your expertise in media and campaigns will be valued and where you can contribute to shaping the future of our firm.
