Compass Group UK and Ireland has appointed Carol Sommerville as its new chief people officer with immediate effect.
Sommerville will be responsible for delivering the business’ ‘Our Social Promise’, which is its commitment to support a million people with opportunities and change their lives through job creation, education, training, community and charitable engagement by 2030.
She joins from luxury pre-owned watch specialist business Watchfinder, where she was global HR director. Prior to this, Sommerville held senior HR roles at Net-a-Porter and began her career at BT, where she worked as HR director for the Openreach Service Centres, director of meritocracy for BT Group and vice president of HR EMEA within BT Global Services. She gained HR experience across various industries in these positions and is committed to developing and investing in people, as well as creating an inclusive culture.
Sommerville said: “Compass has a clear and ambitious people agenda, having taken market leading positions in areas including apprenticeships, career pathways and the equality, diversity and inclusion agenda. I have been really impressed by people’s passion for their jobs and clients, and the caring culture that is in place. I am looking forward to supporting the firm’s ongoing commitment to its people and creating a welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.”
Robin Mills, chief executive officer at Compass Group UK and Ireland, added: “I am delighted to welcome Carol to the Compass family. We are a people business, so this role is critical for the continued success of our organisation. We know as a large employer we have the ability to improve people’s lives and make a difference. Carol is going to be integral to continuing to develop our people-centred culture as we continue to grow and evolve in the coming years.”