At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic people initiatives and shape a thriving organisational culture.
- Company: Lancaster University, a top-ranked global research institution.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive community.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team at a pivotal moment for higher education.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on staff experience and organisational success.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in complex organisations and experience in cultural transformation.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
Closing date: Friday 26 June 2026
Interview date: To be confirmed
Reference: Lancaster University is a leading global research institution, rooted in its local community and defined by academic excellence and a strong sense of purpose. Consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK and internationally, and recognised with a TEF Gold award for teaching excellence, Lancaster brings together world‑class research and an outstanding student experience within a distinctive collegiate culture. With a turnover of c.£400m, 3,500 staff and more than 29,000 students, the University combines global reach with a close‑knit, supportive academic community and a strong sense of regional and international impact.
Our ambition is to be sustainable, academically excellent and recognised as one of the leading universities in the world. Our success is driven by our people, and as we continue to evolve in an increasingly complex higher education landscape, the Chief People Officer will be central to shaping a culture in which colleagues can thrive and perform at their best.
To build on this strong foundation, we are seeking to appoint an outstanding Chief People Officer (CPO). Reporting to the Registrar, Secretary and Chief Operating Officer, and as a member of the University Strategic Leadership Team, the CPO will play a crucial leadership role at a time of significant change for Lancaster and the wider higher education landscape, with staff experience at the heart of the University’s priorities.
The CPO will provide strategic leadership across the full people, organisational development and transformation agenda. Working closely with the Vice‑Chancellor and senior leadership team, you will shape and deliver a progressive and forward‑looking People and Culture Plan aligned to the University’s priorities, ensuring Lancaster has the capability, culture and workforce profile required for long‑term success.
We are seeking a strategic and values‑driven leader with experience operating at Executive or Board level in a complex organisation. You will bring a strong track record of leading large‑scale organisational change, building high‑performing teams, and delivering both strategic and operational excellence. You will be confident navigating employee relations and trade union engagement, and able to build trusted relationships and influence across a wide range of stakeholders. With excellent judgement, emotional intelligence and communication skills, you will be adept at operating in a collegial and intellectually dynamic environment.
While experience in higher education is advantageous, we welcome candidates from related sectors who can demonstrate delivery of organisation‑wide transformation and cultural change. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a globally recognised university at a pivotal moment, shaping the environment in which its people can thrive and enabling Lancaster to deliver its long‑term vision.
Chief People Officer - 0487-26 in Burnley employer: Lancaster University
Lancaster University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a commitment to academic excellence and a strong sense of community, staff are encouraged to thrive in their roles while contributing to meaningful change within the higher education landscape. The university's strategic focus on organisational development ensures that employees have access to unique opportunities for advancement and collaboration in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief People Officer - 0487-26 in Burnley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Lancaster University on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the university's culture and values. Think about how your experience aligns with their mission and be ready to share specific examples that showcase your leadership skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and boost your confidence when discussing your vision for the Chief People Officer role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Lancaster University.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief People Officer - 0487-26 in Burnley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Chief People Officer role. Highlight your experience in organisational change and team building, as these are key aspects of what we're looking for at Lancaster.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see how you've led teams and driven transformation in previous roles. Use specific examples that demonstrate your strategic thinking and ability to influence stakeholders across various levels.
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We value emotional intelligence and strong communication skills, so don't hesitate to share your unique approach to leadership and culture-building.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application via our official website. This ensures it gets to the right people and shows you're serious about joining our team at Lancaster.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand Lancaster University's mission, values, and recent developments. Familiarise yourself with their People and Culture Plan and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Chief People Officer, your leadership style is crucial. Be ready to discuss your approach to leading organisational change and building high-performing teams. Use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you've successfully navigated complex environments.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Demonstrate your ability to build trusted relationships by discussing how you've engaged with various stakeholders in previous roles. Think about times when you’ve influenced decisions or resolved conflicts, especially in a collegial setting.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the university's challenges. Inquire about their current initiatives in employee relations or how they envision the CPO contributing to their strategic goals. This shows your proactive mindset and genuine interest in the position.
