At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape the people and culture strategy at a top global university.
- Company: Lancaster University, a leading research institution with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive environment, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Why this job: Join a pivotal role in transforming the workplace culture for thousands of staff and students.
- Qualifications: Experience in executive leadership and organisational change in complex environments.
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 CPO 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 CPO. Reporting to the Registrar, Secretary and Chief Operating Officer, and as a member of the 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.
Lancaster University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of the community.
Chief People Officer in Longridge 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, the university provides unique opportunities for strategic leadership in shaping a progressive People and Culture Plan, ensuring that staff can thrive in a dynamic environment. As part of a globally recognised institution, employees benefit from a collaborative atmosphere and the chance to make a significant impact in higher education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief People Officer in Longridge
✨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 put your name on the radar of decision-makers.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Lancaster'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 style and strategic thinking.
✨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 follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and show us that you're genuinely interested in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief People Officer in Longridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you dive into your application, take a moment to thoroughly read the job description. It’s packed with clues about what we’re looking for, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and qualifications we value.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send us a generic CV and cover letter! We want to see how your unique skills and experiences align with the role of Chief People Officer. Highlight relevant achievements and show us why you’re the perfect fit for our team.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:As a CPO, your leadership style is crucial. Use your application to demonstrate how you’ve successfully led teams and driven change in previous roles. Share specific examples that reflect your strategic thinking and people-centric approach.
Apply Through Our Website:When you’re ready to apply, make sure to do it through our website. This ensures your application gets to the right place and helps us keep track of all candidates. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
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 priorities will help you align your responses with what they’re looking for in a Chief People Officer.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be ready to discuss your leadership approach and how it has driven organisational change in your previous roles. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to build high-performing teams and navigate complex environments.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific challenges related to employee relations or cultural transformation. Think through potential scenarios and prepare structured responses that demonstrate your strategic thinking and emotional intelligence.
✨Engage with the Panel
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about Lancaster's current challenges and future goals. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the university is the right fit for you.
