Chief People Officer

Lancaster University is a globally engaged institution set within a stunning 578-acre parkland campus. Home to a vibrant community of 24,000 students, we are a TEF Gold institution consistently ranked in the UK’s top 10 by the Complete University Guide 2025. Nearly half of our REF 21 submissions achieved a 4* rating, reaffirming our commitment to world-class research and teaching.

As the institution embarks on an exciting period of transformation, we are seeking a visionary Chief People Officer to play a central role in shaping the future of our University. This pivotal, strategic leadership position will influence and drive initiatives across human resources, organisational development, and change management to support the University’s ambitions and uphold our values.

In this critical role, you will work closely with our executive team to implement the University’s People and Culture Plan, aligning people practices with our strategy for sustainable growth and global impact. The CPO will provide expert advice and support to ensure our people strategy evolves to meet the challenges of operating on a global stage.

As a high-profile and influential leader, you will oversee major transformation projects, workforce planning, and initiatives that enhance organisational effectiveness and foster a thriving, inclusive staff culture. Your leadership will empower academic and professional services colleagues to thrive in an ever-changing higher education landscape.

We are seeking a forward-thinking, accomplished professional with a strong HR background and a proven record of strategic change leadership in complex organisations. You will bring deep expertise in transformation, talent development, employee engagement, and innovative workforce solutions. Crucially, you will have the vision and capability to support Lancaster’s growth both locally and internationally, ensuring that our people strategy is agile, inclusive, and aligned with our global ambitions.

If you are passionate about shaping a progressive, inclusive workplace and aligning people practices with institutional values, we invite you to make a lasting impact at Lancaster University. Join us in driving meaningful change and empowering our community to achieve its full potential on a global scale.

The closing date for applications is noon on Monday 23 December 2024.

We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity, and equality of opportunity.