CIPD appoints Lisa Pearl as new people and change director

The CIPD, the professional body for HR and people development, has appointed Lisa Pearl as its new people and change director.

A Chartered Fellow of the CIPD since 2017, Lisa brings more than 30 years’ HR experience across multiple sectors. She has a strong track record in shaping organisational culture, leading transformational change and demonstrating the commercial impact of high-performing people functions. 

Lisa, who will be joining the CIPD in February, has held several senior executive roles including chief HR officer at Bestway Healthcare, group people director at Anchor, executive director of People at AQA, and most recently group people director for DFS. 

Lisa is committed to advancing professional standards in HR and is passionate about education and continuous development. Outside of work, she is a governor at a local high school, using her expertise to support leadership strategy and shape positive student outcomes. 

Commenting on her new appointment, Lisa said:

“Having been a proud member of the CIPD throughout my HR career, I’m thrilled to join the organisation and contribute to growing and serving our membership. I’m looking forward to leading the people and change function in building the culture, capabilities and AI-enabled skills our people need to address the challenges facing the profession, and evolve as a modern, member-focused professional body.”

CIPD chief executive Peter Cheese said:

“We’re delighted to welcome Lisa to the CIPD. She brings a wealth of HR and leadership experience and will be a key part of the executive leadership team. She will play a critical role in driving performance to deliver for all our members, and in shaping our capabilities and culture as we respond to the many changes impacting the profession and the wider world of work. We want to continue making the CIPD a great place to work and a leader in good people practices.”