In turbulent times, is HR leading the business or merely keeping up with it?
Compass Carter Osborne brought together Chief People Officers from across the broad spectrum of healthcare and life sciences at a recent roundtable to discuss the role of the CPO in these uncertain times.
As complexity increases and resources tighten, the role of the CPO is under more pressure than ever. From navigating uncertain geopolitics and economic shocks, to unlocking the potential of AI as organisational priorities shift.
But within this challenge lies an opportunity for modern HR functions to become an ever more prominent force in delivering value to all stakeholders: employees, customers and investors. Our round table explored the ways in which People leaders are making this a reality.

The CCO team extend their sincere thanks to the following participants:
- Sam Leighton-Smith (Discussion chair), Group Managing Director, Compass Recruitment Solutions
- Abigail Bàda, Director – People & Culture, Compass Carter Osborne
- Jamie Barker, Principal Consultant, Compass Carter Osborne
- Hannah Davis, Former People Experience Director, Ted Baker
- Alex Dummer, Global Talent & Development Director (Oncology), AstraZeneca
- Genevieve Glover, Chief People Officer, Barchester
- Georgina Hayes, HR Director, Alliance Medical
- Tania Holcroft, Group Chief People Officer, The Go Ahead Group
- Dan Kiely, Director, Compass Carter Osborne
- Sara Knight, Chief People Officer, The London Clinic
- Claire Leake, Chief People Officer, National Care Group
- James Westwood-Beere, Chief People Officer, Lifeways
To obtain a copy of the full report and the detailed discussions, download your copy below.
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