CU launches national search for new chief people officer
A national search is underway for the university’s next senior associate vice chancellor and chief people officer (CPO), who will lead the Department of Human Resources. The university’s goal is to identify a final candidate by this fall.
Llen Pomeroy, associate vice chancellor and Title IX coordinator in the Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance, is chairing the , whose membership includes representation from shared governance, administrative support units and school/college leadership.
The CPO plays the central role in shaping the campus’s people operations, including in the areas of organizational development, succession planning, talent acquisition, talent management, change management, organizational and performance management, training and development and compensation. The CPO provides strategic leadership and demonstrates a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion throughout the institution. The Department of Human Resources serves nearly 10,000 non-student employees.
Chief Operating Officer Patrick O’Rourke, to whom the CPO reports, said changing the title of the position leading the Office of Human Resources is intended to better reflect the scope of the role and the importance of the work, guidance and asset management provided.
“The people working for CU Boulder advance the university’s mission in innovative and invaluable ways on a daily basis,” said O’Rourke, who leads Strategic Resources and Support, which is the university’s business, finance and operations division. “We are aiming to hire a leader who will grow HR’s record of sustaining and supporting our people in ways that ensure their health, wellness, sense of belonging and professional fulfillment so that the university is recognized as a destination employer in the state.”
Merna Jacobsen has served as interim chief human resources officer since July 1, 2021, following the retirement of Katherine Erwin. Jacobsen will return to her role as associate vice chancellor, overseeing employee and organizational development, once the new CPO is onboard.
“We are grateful to Merna for her selflessness and leadership during this time of transition,” O’Rourke said. “Her guidance has ensured the continued delivery of the services and support that are so crucial to the success of our people.”