CPO Academy

In 2023, the National Academy of Human Resources (NAHR) launched its inaugural Academy tailored for first-time Chief People Officers (CPOs) in start-up or high-growth organizations—typically venture capital (VC) or private equity (PE) backed—who have assumed the role within the past one to three years. Held annually each spring in either New York City or San Francisco, this exclusive, invitation-only program is designed to meet the unique challenges of scaling people strategy in fast-moving environments.

This immersive, two-day experience brings together CPOs leading people functions for the first time to learn from seasoned HR executives and top industry experts. The curriculum is action-oriented and focused on the specific realities of early-stage and high-growth organizations, covering key topics such as the evolving role of the CPO, HR strategy at scale, talent acquisition in competitive markets, compensation design, culture building, leadership development, and more.

The Academy provides a rare, neutral forum for CPOs to share insights, explore solutions, and build a trusted peer network.

Graduates receive a certificate of completion, a digital badge, and gain access to an exclusive online community for continued connection with peers and faculty.