At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic people initiatives and foster a thriving workplace culture.
- Company: Lancaster University, a top-ranked global research institution.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a supportive community committed to equality and diversity.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education and make a real impact on people's lives.
- Qualifications: Proven leader with experience in organisational change and team building.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
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.
Current Challenges
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 (CPO) will be central to shaping a culture in which colleagues can thrive and perform at their best.
Responsibilities
The CPO will provide strategic leadership across the full people, organisational development and transformation agenda. Working closely with the Vice‑Chair, senior leadership team and the Vice‑Chancellor, the CPO 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. Key duties include:
- Leading large‑scale organisational change and building high‑performing teams.
- Delivering strategic and operational excellence in people management.
- Managing employee relations and trade‑union engagement.
- Building trusted relationships and influencing across stakeholders.
- Applying strong judgement, emotional intelligence and communication skills in a collegial, intellectually dynamic environment.
Qualifications
Strategic and values‑driven leader with experience operating at Executive or Board level in a complex organisation. Proven track record of leading large‑scale organisational change, building high‑performing teams, and delivering strategic and operational excellence. Demonstrated ability to navigate employee relations and trade‑union engagement, with strong judgment, emotional intelligence and communication skills. Experience in higher education is advantageous but not essential; candidates from related sectors who can demonstrate delivery of organisation‑wide transformation and cultural change will also be considered.
Equal Opportunities
Lancaster University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of the community.
Chief People Officer (CPO) in Burnley employer: Lancaster University
Lancaster University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With a strong commitment to academic excellence and community engagement, staff benefit from a supportive environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. The role of Chief People Officer is pivotal in shaping a progressive People and Culture Plan, ensuring that employees thrive while contributing to the university's mission of global impact and sustainability.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief People Officer (CPO) in Burnley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to Lancaster University. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the university’s culture and values. Understand their current challenges and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as someone who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led change and built high-performing teams. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and make them impactful.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Lancaster community. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief People Officer (CPO) in Burnley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who you're addressing. Tailor your application to resonate with Lancaster University's values and mission. Show us that you get what we're about!
Be Authentic:We want to hear your unique voice! Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. Share your experiences and insights that make you the perfect fit for the Chief People Officer role.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase your experience in leading organisational change and building high-performing teams. Use specific examples that demonstrate your strategic leadership skills and how you've made an impact in previous roles.
Check Your Details:Before hitting send, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A polished application shows us that you pay attention to detail and care about making a great impression. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Lancaster University's mission, values, and recent initiatives. Understanding their culture and challenges will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Chief People Officer, your leadership approach is crucial. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led organisational change and built high-performing teams. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers effectively.
✨Emphasise Emotional Intelligence
Given the importance of emotional intelligence in this role, prepare to share instances where you've navigated complex employee relations or influenced stakeholders. Highlight your ability to build trusted relationships and communicate effectively in challenging situations.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions. Inquire about the current challenges the university faces in people management or how they envision the future of their People and Culture Plan. This shows your strategic thinking and genuine interest in the role.
