UK digital bank Zopa has appointed Helen Beurier as its first chief people officer as of this month (October) ahead of its public listing.
Beurier has 25 years’ experience working in human resources, was the former executive at PepsiCo and has held senior positions at M&S and GlaxoSmithKline, where she was in charge of the delivery of HR and transformational change initiatives across the globe.
She will begin her job by hiring new members of staff ahead of the bank’s initial public offering (IPO) next year, in order to expand the team before the listing.
According to the bank, as part of her new role, Beurier will be expected to lead all activities that encompass its people experience, with a specific focus on strengthening key capabilities for growth. She will be responsible for ensuring the “unique culture” continues to “delight and engage” staff and customers as the business expands its breadth of products, attracts new talent, and solidifies its position as a key competitor in the banking sector.
Beurier commented that she is “delighted” to be joining Zopa at a pivotal moment in its history, and to become part of its fast-paced, growing team.
“Looking towards 2022, Zopa will be significantly expanding its talented team and investing in new capabilities to support its rapid growth. Its culture of community, collaboration and inclusion make it an exciting and inspiring place to be,” she said.
Jaidev Janardana, chief executive at Zopa, added that the team is “very excited” to welcome Beurier as the bank’s first chief people officer.
“She brings a wealth of experience that is crucial to building Zopa’s best-in-class talent force. Our growth plan over the next 18 months is bold. We will only achieve it by making Zopa the best place to work, and by attracting and retaining the smartest people,” he said.