Chief People Officer (CPO)

Weststarky; Bedford; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading community organization in Bedford is seeking a Chief People Officer to join their Executive Leadership Team. This role offers strategic leadership in shaping employee experience, culture, and talent development across various YMCA units. The ideal candidate will have a bachelor's degree in HR or related fields and 5-10+ years of leadership experience, including at least 3 years in an executive capacity. Join a mission-driven organization committed to making a difference in communities across the region.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5-10+ years of progressive leadership experience in HR or people strategy.
• 3+ years at the executive level required.
• Strong knowledge of HR operations and technology systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic leadership and people strategy across YMCA.
• Create an exceptional employee experience supporting recruitment and retention.
• Drive organizational change and deliver measurable results.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Talent acquisition

Relationship-building

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or related

Job description

The Chief People Officer (CPO) is a key member of the Executive Leadership Team (C-Suite), reporting directly to the President & CEO. The CPO provides strategic leadership and organizational vision for all aspects of people strategy, talent development, workforce systems, culture, and employee experience across the YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South.

This position is responsible for creating and sustaining an exceptional employee experience that supports recruitment, retention, development, payroll, benefits, compliance, and employee relations. The CPO ensures that people strategy is fully aligned with the operational and business goals of every YMCA unit—including membership centers, centralized program areas, and community-based initiatives.

The CPO champions a culture of collaboration, innovation, accountability, and respect, ensuring the YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South remains an employer of choice across West Tennessee, North Mississippi, Eastern Arkansas, and expanding markets.

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, Business Administration, or related.
• Minimum 5-10+ years of progressive leadership experience in HR, people strategy, or organizational development, including 3+ years at the executive level.
• Proven track record shaping culture, employee experience, relations, payroll, and engagement in complex organizations.
• Expertise in talent acquisition, retention, workforce planning, and leadership development.
• Strong knowledge of HR operations, compliance, and technology systems.
• Exceptional relationship-building, leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to lead large teams, drive organizational change, and deliver measurable results.
• Strong alignment with the mission and values of the YMCA.