Role Overview for Chief People Officer – Chicago, IL
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering, high-growth medical device company in their search for a visionary Chief People Officer (CPO). Based in the vibrant city of Chicago, IL, this executive leadership role is a rare opportunity to shape the human capital strategy of an organization dedicated to improving patient outcomes through groundbreaking technology. Our client is a leader in its field, renowned for its commitment to innovation, quality, and ethical practices. The CPO will be a cornerstone of the executive team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer and serving as a strategic advisor on all matters related to people and culture.
This is not merely an HR leadership role; it is a business-critical position that will directly influence the company’s trajectory. The ideal candidate will be a transformative leader who can build upon a solid foundation to create a world-class people function that attracts, develops, and retains the specialized talent required in the highly regulated medical device industry.
You will be the architect of an inclusive, high-performance culture that fosters innovation, collaboration, and a deep sense of purpose among a diverse team of engineers, scientists, clinicians, and business professionals. Your leadership will ensure that as the company scales, its most valuable asset—its people—are empowered to do their best work. You will champion the company’s values, drive organizational effectiveness, and ensure that the people strategy is seamlessly integrated with the overall business objectives, preparing the organization for sustained growth and market leadership.
Key Responsibilities of Chief People Officer – Chicago, IL
The Chief People Officer will have a broad and impactful remit, overseeing all aspects of the human resources function. Key responsibilities include:
Strategic Leadership & Organizational Design
Partner with the CEO and executive team to develop and execute a comprehensive human capital strategy that aligns with the company’s long-term goals. Act as a trusted advisor on organizational design, workforce planning, and change management to support rapid scaling and strategic pivots.
Talent Acquisition & Management
Lead the development of a sophisticated talent acquisition strategy to attract top-tier talent in a competitive market, with a focus on specialized roles in R&D, regulatory affairs, clinical research, and quality assurance. Implement robust talent management and succession planning processes to build leadership pipelines and ensure business continuity.
Culture & Employee Engagement
Serve as the primary steward of the company’s culture. Develop and implement initiatives that enhance employee engagement, foster a sense of belonging, and reinforce the company’s mission and values. Utilize data from engagement surveys and other feedback channels to drive meaningful improvements.
Total Rewards Strategy
Design and manage a competitive and equitable total rewards program, including executive compensation, equity plans, sales incentives, and comprehensive benefits packages. Ensure compensation practices are benchmarked against the medical device and biotech industries to attract and retain premier talent.
Learning & Development
Champion a culture of continuous learning and professional growth. Oversee the creation and implementation of leadership development programs, technical training, and career pathing initiatives that empower employees to reach their full potential.
HR Operations & Compliance
Ensure the HR function operates with excellence and efficiency. Oversee HRIS implementation and optimization, payroll, and benefits administration. Guarantee rigorous compliance with all federal, state, and local employment laws, as well as industry-specific standards and FDA regulations pertinent to the medical device sector.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Develop, lead, and execute a forward-thinking DEI strategy that is woven into the fabric of the organization. Foster an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and have an equal opportunity to succeed. Track and report on DEI metrics to ensure accountability and progress.
Performance Management
Evolve the company’s performance management philosophy and systems to drive high performance, facilitate constructive feedback, and align individual goals with company objectives. Coach leaders on effective performance management and employee relations.
Requirements for the Chief People Officer – Chicago, IL
We are seeking a seasoned and strategic executive with a proven track record of building and leading high-impact people functions in complex, regulated environments. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:
Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in Human Resources, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., VP of HR, Head of People, CPO). Crucially, significant experience within the medical device, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or a related life sciences industry is required. Experience in a publicly-traded or late-stage, pre-IPO company is highly desirable.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA, MS in HR, etc.) is strongly preferred. Professional certifications such as SHRM-SCP or SPHR are a plus.
Strategic Acumen
Demonstrated ability to think strategically and translate business objectives into actionable HR initiatives. Proven experience as a key member of a senior executive team, contributing to broad business strategy.
Leadership Skills
Exceptional leadership and people management skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop a high-performing HR team. A track record of being a trusted coach and mentor to leaders across an organization.
Regulatory Knowledge
Deep understanding of HR compliance and employment law, with specific experience navigating the complexities of a highly regulated industry.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Superb communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. The ability to build strong relationships and influence effectively at all levels of the organization, from the Board of Directors to individual contributors.
Data-Driven Mindset
Strong analytical skills and experience using HR metrics and data to inform decisions and measure the effectiveness of people initiatives.
Personal Attributes
High emotional intelligence, impeccable integrity, sound judgment, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. A proactive, hands-on leader with a passion for building great companies through people.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain the very best talent. This includes:
- Competitive Base Salary
- Significant Annual Performance-Based Bonus
- Meaningful Equity/Stock Option Package
- Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Generous 401(k) Plan with Company Match
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and Company Holidays
- Paid Parental Leave
- Executive Coaching and Professional Development Opportunities
- Relocation Assistance for qualified candidates
- A collaborative, innovative, and mission-driven work environment
How to Apply
This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative HR leader with a passion for the life sciences industry and the qualifications outlined above, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. For more information or to explore other executive opportunities, please connect with JRG Partners’ Human Resources Executive Search team. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive talent pool and welcome applications from all qualified individuals.
