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CPO appointments fall as demand for experience grows, report finds

Eton Bridge Partners found that overall global appointment volumes have fallen by 21%, driven by a 34% decline in the UK.

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CPO appointments fall as demand for experience grows, report finds
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Global Chief People Officer (CPO) appointments have declined significantly in recent years, while demand for sector-specific experience and private equity-backed leadership continues to grow, according to research from Eton Bridge Partners.

The report, which analysed nearly 15,000 CPO appointments between 2023 and 2025, found that overall appointment volumes have fallen by 21%, driven by a 34% decline in the UK.

In contrast, the US now accounts for around half of all global CPO moves.

The findings suggested a shift towards more targeted hiring.

Around 82% of appointments now come from within the same sector, indicating organisations are prioritising industry-specific expertise.

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At the same time, hiring from external organisations rose to an eight-year high of 71%.

Despite a growing focus on experience, the proportion of roles filled by established CPOs has fallen to 53%, with an increasing number of first-time appointments at senior level.

The research also highlighted continued female representation at the top of the profession.

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Women accounted for 72% of global CPO appointments, reflecting broader gender trends within human resources leadership.

The UK and Australia showed particularly high levels of female representation, at around 80% and 87% respectively, while North America remained above the global average.

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However, regional differences persisted.

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In parts of Asia, including Japan and India, appointments were more likely to be held by men, although the report noted signs of gradual change in some markets.

Private equity is playing an increasing role in shaping the CPO landscape.

Around 40% of appointments took place in private equity-backed businesses, up from 34% two years ago.

The UK, US, France and Germany accounted for the highest concentration of these roles.

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The report linked this trend to a growing focus on operational performance, with previous research from Eton Bridge Partners showing that 49% of private equity-backed CEOs and chairs identify internal efficiency as a key priority.

The study also found that 29% of CPO roles in private equity-backed organisations are filled by first-time CPOs, suggesting continued opportunities for progression into senior leadership.

Average age is also increasing, with CPOs now typically aged 53, pointing to a greater emphasis on experience and leadership maturity.

Olivia Sharp, partner at Eton Bridge Partners, said: “What we’re seeing is a clear shift in how organisations are thinking about people leadership.

“The CPO role has become far more central to business performance – particularly in environments undergoing change or growth.

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“As a result, boards are placing greater emphasis on experience, adaptability and the ability to lead transformation, rather than following a single, traditional pathway.”

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