At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape the culture for a thriving academic community.
- Company: Lancaster University, a top global research institution with a strong local impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a supportive team at a pivotal moment for higher education.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in shaping a progressive People and Culture Plan.
- Qualifications: Experience at Executive level with a track record in organisational change.
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. 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 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 organisational change. The university's strategic focus on people and culture ensures that employees have access to unique opportunities for development and collaboration within a globally recognised institution.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief People Officer - 0487-26
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Lancaster University on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the university's culture and values. We want to see how you align with their mission, so think about examples from your past that showcase your leadership and people skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend to do a mock interview with you. This will help us refine your answers and boost your confidence before the big day.
✨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.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief People Officer - 0487-26
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Chief People Officer role. Highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with Lancaster University's values and goals.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a CPO, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. Use your written application to share examples of how you've successfully led teams and driven organisational change in previous roles.
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to express your passion for people and culture in higher education.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our official website. This ensures that your application is received directly by our team and considered promptly.
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 fostered collaboration, especially in challenging situations.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the university's challenges. This could include inquiries about their current initiatives in employee relations or how they envision the future of their workforce. It shows you're not just there to answer questions but are also thinking critically about the role.
