Chief People & Culture Officer

Cipd Hr30; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 140,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading NHS organisation is seeking a Chief People & Culture Officer to shape the strategic direction of its People and Culture strategy. This pivotal role demands an inspiring leader who can drive workforce transformation and inclusivity across both Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust and Isle of Wight NHS Trust. The successful candidate will work closely with the executive team, influencing change and ensuring high-quality service across HR functions. Experience in a large, unionised environment will be advantageous, though NHS experience is not essential.

Qualifications

• Experience in HR & OD with a focus on change management.
• Proven track record as an executive leader.
• Ability to navigate unionised environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of the Group's People and Culture strategy.
• Act as a visible member of the Group Executive Team.
• Drive workforce transformation and talent strategies.

Skills

Effective Leadership

Change Management

Team Collaboration

Strategic Vision

Inclusivity Advocacy

Job description

- **Chief People & Culture Officer**# Chief People & Culture Officer£0.00Portsmouth & Isle of Wightup to £170,000Full TimeCIPD Member, Non CIPD member26 January 2026PermanentChange Management, Corporate Strategy, General HR Function, Organisational Development, WorkforceLocal and National Government, Public Healthcare, Public SectorSenior Executive / OfficerPortsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust (PHU) and Isle of Wight NHS Trust (IWT) have been working in partnership since 2019, creating a Group model in 2023 that delivers better care for our communities. Together, we employ over 11,500 colleagues and provide services to a population of more than 675,000 people across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.Our Trusts’ strategies - *Working Together, Improving Together* - are underpinned by our ethos of *Delivering Excellence*. We are ambitious for our people and our patients, and we are committed to creating a culture where everyone feels valued, included and supported to thrive.Reporting to our Chief Executive, you will join the Group Executive Team. This is a pivotal role, responsible for shaping organisational culture, driving workforce transformation, and ensuring we have the talent and capability to deliver outstanding care across both our organisations. Key responsibilities include:* Acting as a visible and influential member of the Group Executive Team, contributing to collective decision-making and supporting the delivery of our shared vision.* Leading the development and delivery of the Group’s People and Culture strategy.* Championing inclusion, civility and compassionate leadership across both organisations.* Driving workforce redesign and talent strategies that support sustainable services.* Fostering a coaching culture and develop leadership capability at every level.* Influencing across the wider health system to deliver integrated workforce solutions.* Ensuring the People Directorate provides a proactive, high-quality service across HR and OD.We are looking for an inspiring, collaborative leader with a professional background in HR & OD who brings credibility, resilience and a passion for people. You’ll bring experience as an executive leader, supporting executive colleagues to deliver and providing strategic advice to the Chief Executive and Board. You’ll have experience of leading change in a large, unionised environment and the ability to navigate cultural differences across multiple sites. Strategic vision, operational grip and a commitment to inclusion are essential.**Previous experience of the NHS is not a prerequisite, and we are keen to encourage applications from candidates who have transferrable experience from other environments.**This is a rare opportunity to lead transformation at scale and shape the future of two ambitious NHS organisations. If you are curious, values-driven and excited by the opportunity to make a lasting impact on our workforce and communities, we would love to hear from you.For a Recruitment Pack with further information please click through the 'Apply' link and you will access our recruitment microsite. For any queries, please contact our recruitment partner, James Stephens, Director, Morgan Law, by emailing [e-mail]. Application is by CV and Supporting Statement. The closing date for applications will be 11pm on Monday 26th January 2026.We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities and are proud to be an organisation where everyone can thrive.