Your first CPO move - backed by strategy, support and insight.

First Movers

You’ve built capability, influence and momentum. Now it’s time for the first executive leap. We work with emerging People & Culture leaders preparing to take on their first Chief People Officer role in scaling businesses.

Our service is built around discretion, clarity and career-aligned introductions - helping you step into the C-suite with confidence and direction.

Support tailored to your executive HR career progression

We help you prepare for the shift from senior HR leader to executive. That includes refining your value proposition, understanding what hiring managers look for in first-time CPOs, and building your confidence for stepping into executive HR with clarity and control.

Strategic roles with impact and development opportunity

We work with scaling and values-led organisations that recognise leadership potential, not just prior titles. You’ll be introduced to businesses looking for HR executives who can shape culture and deliver commercial impact.

Guidance on positioning, pitch and leadership narrative

Your first executive role is about more than just credentials; it’s about story, influence and alignment. We support you in clarifying your message and presenting as a strategic business partner ready for the next step.

Clarity around what the right first time CPO opportunity looks like

Not every CPO opportunity is created equal. We help you assess readiness on both sides - yours and the organisation’s - to ensure you step into a role that sets you up for long-term success. You’ll also gain access to peer insights and CPO mentoring through our extended network.

FAQs

  • Is it realistic to land a CPO role without having held the title before?

    Absolutely. Many organisations are open to first-time CPOs who bring proven leadership, HR expertise, and business acumen. We help shape your narrative so it resonates.

  • What kind of support will I receive?

    From the first conversation through to offer negotiation, we provide structured guidance, positioning advice, and coaching to help you navigate your first CPO executive search process with clarity.

  • What types of businesses do you work with?

    We partner with growth-focused, values-led organisations looking to elevate their People & Culture function - often in the 100–800 headcount range. These environments are perfect for emerging Chief People Officers seeking a role where they can make an impact fast.

Related insights

Hallmarks of the Right Next CPO Role: How to Sense Check Your Next Move

September 9, 2025
As a sitting Chief People Officer, you’ve already proven your ability to align people strategy with business performance. The next challenge is deciding whether a new role will stretch you further or simply repeat what you’ve already achieved. Choosing wisely is about clarity on what growth looks like for you — profess

Ready for Your First Chief People Officer Role? Here’s What You Need to Know

September 9, 2025
Becoming a Chief People Officer (CPO) is a major career milestone. It signals a shift in reporting line and often a move from second-in-command, to leading the people agenda for an entire organisation. It’s an exciting move that requires both ambition and preparation. Here’s how to get yourself ready for the step up.

Leading at Scale: How Enterprise Leaders Thrive as CPOs

September 9, 2025
Few executive roles carry the weight and influence of an enterprise-level Chief People Officer (CPO). In Australia’s largest listed companies and global giants, the CPO sits at the heart of transformation, culture, and governance. This is the pinnacle of HR leadership — where decisions affect not just employees, but in

Enquire about how we can assist you today.

Contact Us