Chris Bones, Former Dean of Henley Business School and senior HR professional, will lead the CIPD’s board of trustees at a critical time in the evolution of the people profession
The CIPD has appointed Professor Christopher Bones as its new chair of the board. Chris has held senior HR leader roles in Diageo and Cadbury and became a Chartered Fellow of the CIPD in 2002. In 2004, he was appointed Dean of Henley Business School.
Chris takes over as chair from Valerie Hughes-D’Aeth, who held the role since 2021. He will lead our board of trustees in overseeing our strategic direction, building on the significant progress made under Valerie’s leadership to champion better work and working lives.
“We’re at a pivotal moment for the CIPD and wider profession – a time filled with many complex challenges but also opportunities to drive meaningful change, transform organisations and truly champion better work and working lives.”
Chris’ role as chair is effective immediately following an open recruitment process and approval by the CIPD board and council. His appointment comes at an exciting time for the CIPD as we continue to strengthen our international network of people professionals, being a strong voice for the profession, and working with many major organisations to professionalise their teams and build their confidence and capabilities in shaping the future of work
Organisations around the world are facing many complex issues – particularly as they navigate the impact of AI on the future of work and strive to develop engaging and rewarding employment. The people profession has a crucial role to play in guiding businesses through this challenge. We are committed to providing the evidence-based tools and resources they need to operate at the heart of business strategy, as well as ensuring their voice is heard by the policymakers driving these changes.
“It's been a privilege to serve the CIPD. I leave with pride for what we have achieved and my passion for our profession is as strong as ever. I know that the CIPD will keep growing its reach and impact.”
Chris will build on the progress made during Valerie’s time leading the board. We’ve made significant investments in our products, services and digital transformation – all of which have supported our growth. We’ve expanded our impact internationally and reinforced our position as a trusted partner for people professionals around the world.
Valerie has fully supported our organisational transformation to enable us to better serve members, organisations and the profession. She leaves a legacy of growth, including expanding our membership to over 160,000 professionals internationally and increasing our reach and influence across the profession and wider world of work.
Chris shares our commitment to helping members develop the capability, confidence and credibility they need to thrive – and ensuring their voice is heard at the highest levels.
“Chris brings a unique blend of commercial insight, entrepreneurial spirit and academic expertise to this role. We look forward to working closely with him as we strengthen our support for members and help shape the future of the profession.”
Better work and working lives for all
How our structure, governance and leadership keep our charitable and business activities responsible, accountable, sustainable and transparent
Meet the team who paint the big picture for the CIPD and uphold our purpose
The partner, standard and voice for the people profession
