Could an interim Chief People Officer or interim Chief Human Resources Officer role be your perfect career move? In this episode, we explore what the job is really like, the skills that help you succeed, and how to decide if it’s the right path for you.

HR Coffee Time Host, Fay Wallis, is joined by Dotty Day, an experienced interim CPO, strategy consultant, and founder of Nu Leaf (supporting ambitious businesses with fractional HR leadership and practical, people-first strategies). She’s also the founder of gighrly, a thriving business club for HR freelancers and consultants.

As part of our special CPO/CHRO series – where each guest answers the same nine listener-chosen questions – Dotty becomes the 6th CPO to share her insights. She talks about her unconventional path to the role, the realities of interim work, and valuable advice for all ambitious HR professionals.

You’ll hear Dotty’s thoughts on:

1. Why developing your commercial acumen should include learning from marketing as well as finance
2. How to say “no” without damaging relationships – and why it matters for avoiding burnout
3. A practical influencing strategy to get buy-in for your ideas before the meeting even starts
4. Avoiding HR jargon and using the language of the business
5. The mindset and adaptability needed to thrive in interim work

Whether you’re aiming for a CPO/CHRO role, considering interim work, or just want to strengthen your leadership skills, there’s plenty to take away from this conversation.

Useful Links

1. Connect with Fay Wallis on LinkedIn
2. Visit Fay’s website
3. Learn about Fay’sInspiring HR leadership development programme
4. Connect with Dotty Day on LinkedIn
5. Visit Nu Leaf– Dotty’s consultancy
6. Visit gighrly– Dotty’s business community for HR freelancers and consultants

Other Relevant HR Coffee Time Episodes

1. Episode 7:What To Do When There Aren’t Enough Hours in the Day
2. Episode 86:How to Stop Other People Taking Credit for Your Ideas in Meetings
3. Episode 103:Career Options in HR – Is Contracting the Perfect Fit for You? (With Eleanor Minshall)
4. Episode 123:Avoid Burnout – How to Spot Signs of Stress & Take Action (With Dr Jo Burrell)

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