Investors in People has today announced their Chief Executive, Paul Devoy, will retire from his position, at the end of March 2026 after 14 years of exceptional leadership and service to the organisation.
Paul, who has led Investors in People since 2011, made the announcement to the organisation’s community of clients and partners today, citing his desire to step down at a time when the organisation is in great shape and performing at its strongest level.
“It was not an easy decision, purely because I am inspired every day by the organisations and people who are part of our community,” said Paul. “Our clients’ long-term commitment to investing in their people is a testament to the quality of leadership and culture in their organisations. I feel privileged to have been part of the Investors in People community over the last 14 years.”
Under Paul’s leadership, Investors in People has achieved unprecedented success. The community, representing over 1.1 million employees, has never been more engaged; a fact reflected in the organisation’s ‘World Class’ NPS score (currently sitting at 82) and consistently high levels of client retention. Investors in People continues to operate as a sustainable community interest company, enabling continued investment in its growth and community impact.
During his tenure, Paul has spoken on stages around the world becoming a leading voice in the HR and People Leadership space. Over the years he has spoken alongside celebrities and thought leaders including Sara Davies, Jamie Laing, Anna Richardson, Steven Bartlett, Ann Francke, Ruby Wax, Sir Cary Cooper, Joe Wicks, Blaire Palmer and many others.
“I feel happy and content to retire now as I know that we have an outstanding team of staff and practitioners that make our purpose come to life every day,” Paul continued. “They consistently show unrivalled passion and professionalism to ‘making work better’ through the support they give to this community. Thanks to them and all of you, Investors in People has never been in a better place.”
Paul’s career spans four decades, beginning in 1985 when he started as an Administrative Assistant after leaving school. His journey to leading one of the UK’s most respected workplace accreditation bodies exemplifies the transformative power of investing in people’s development and how work can provide a tremendous platform for personal growth.
To ensure continuity and stability, the organisation is identifying and onboarding a new Chief Executive who shares the organisation’s values and vision, with Paul remaining actively involved to provide support and guidance to his successor as they are on-boarded into the business.
“Paul has been an inspirational leader who has transformed Investors in People into the thriving organisation it is today,” said, Ian Deninson, Chairman of Investors in People CIC: “His legacy of promoting the impact and value of work and putting people at the heart of business success will continue to guide us as we enter this new chapter.
“The organisation has exciting plans for growth and expanding impact in the years ahead, positioning the incoming CEO to lead Investors in People through its next phase of development.”
The recruitment process for Paul Devoy’s successor is currently underway, with the new CEO expected to be appointed ahead of the end of March 2026 transition date.
Interested parties are invited to apply for the CEO role via the dedicated recruitment website.
For all media enquiries please contact – Mobeena Iqbal (mobeena.iqbal@investorsinpeople.com)
