159 | 4 methods to get your first Chief People Officer (or CHRO) role

What’s the best way to land your first Chief People Officer or CHRO role?In this episode, Fay Wallis breaks down the four most common routes that real CPOs have taken to step into the top people leadership job for the very first time. You’ll also hear short clips from several CPO guests who generously shared their stories and insights.You’ll hear about:Four routes into first CPO rolesInternal discussions leading to job title changesBeing headhunted by executive recruitersStrengthening your LinkedIn profileApplying directly for senior HR rolesPreparing for high-level interviewsPitching for promotion with a business caseUseful LinksConnect with Fay Wallis on LinkedInVisit Fay’s websiteLearn about Fay’sInspiring HR leadership development programmeBuy a copy of The Essential HR PlannerOther Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEp 31:3 little-known LinkedIn features which will help you get your next jobEp 106:7 types of posts to share on LinkedIn that will help your HR careerEp 149: The CPO Job Application That Worked, Strategic vs Operational HR, and Why Compassion Matters (with Funmi Onamusi):Audio link:https://brightskyhr.co.uk/hr-coffee-time-podcast/149/YouTube link:https://youtu.be/n-zYslILExc?si=dIJFbWDgo2SWlcUzEp 154: Step-by-Step Career Advice to become a successful CHRO/CPO (with Nicola Lyons):Audio link:https://brightskyhr.co.uk/hr-coffee-time-podcast/154/YouTube link:https://youtu.be/tdqjSSbKMmM?si=WpaKhorECI5-ieFkEp 147: How to Become a Successful Chief People Officer: Insider insights (with Kanika Mehra):Audio link:https://brightskyhr.co.uk/hr-coffee-time-podcast/147/YouTube link:https://youtu.be/R31JrBpT490?si=fikKsO8dJBahIRpxEnjoyed This Episode? Don’t Miss the Next One!Sign up to the free weekly HR Coffee Time email to be notified each time a new episode is released – and get free career tips, tools, and resources.Mentioned in this episode:Join the Inspiring HR Leadership ProgrammeBuild your confidence, credibility & impact through the Inspiring HR Leadership Programme. The next cohort is now open for booking. Inspiring HRHelp That’s There when It’s Needed MostMenopause, grief, ADHD, relationship breakdown... Every day, employees dealing with these situations are turned away by their EAP because they don't qualify for counselling. When someone finally asks for help, they deserve better. Visit Kara Connect, where no employee is ever turned away. Kara Connect

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This episode was published on December 5, 2025.

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