HR Coffee Time7 Nov 2025

157 | The #1 Difference Between HR Directors and Chief People Officers

If you’ve ever wondered what truly separates an HR Director from a Chief People Officer (CPO) or CHRO, you’re not alone. It’s a common question, and after months of speaking with incredible CPOs for this series, a powerful theme kept coming up again and again.

In this episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis shares the one big difference that defines the step up, a shift that’s far more about mindset and perspective than job title. You’ll hear clips from Chief People Officers including John Scrooby, Dotty Day, Lorna Bains, Dr Andy Stephenson, and Nebel Crowhurst as they describe what changed for them when they made the move.

Fay also shares a monster truck analogy that brings this transformation to life, from leading your HR function to steering the entire business. Whether you’re already operating at that level or preparing for the next step, this episode will help you see what it really means to become a business leader, not just a people leader.

Join us for reassurance and advice on making that leap.

You’ll Hear about:

The defining difference between HR Director and CPO roles
Why the CPO role is about leading the business
A monster truck analogy that brings the concept to life
Insights from five experienced Chief People Officers
How to start developing business acumen for your next step

Useful Links

Connect with Fay Wallis on LinkedIn
Visit Fay’s website
Learn about Fay’s Inspiring HR leadership development programme

Other Relevant HR Coffee Time Episodes

Episode 146 with John Scrooby - Lessons in HR Leadership: How to Succeed as a Chief People Officer
Episode 151 with Dotty Day – Could an Interim CPO/CHRO Role Be Your Perfect Career Option?
Episode 153 with Lorna Bains – Inside the Fractional CPO/CHRO Role – What It Involves & How to Succeed
Episode 155 with Dr Andrew Stephenson – The Mindset, Skills & Plan to Become a Successful Chief People Officer
Episode 156 with Nebel Crowhurst – Why Chief People Officers Need Strong Networks (And How to Build Yours)

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