Lucy Soper
Head of People

I joined this amazing company in October 2021, driven by a passion for ensuring our core values are lived and breathed across the organisation. My role is to build the right talent and structure to support our growth while fostering an environment where careers thrive.

I develop and execute the people strategy, covering all aspects of the employee lifecycle and experience. Collaborating with senior leaders, our wider group, and Starbucks partners, I help translate strategy into daily operations. Over the past three years, we’ve reduced team turnover by over 30% and increased internal promotions to 50%—proof that this is a great place to grow a career. 

My experience spans Hospitality and Financial Services. At Costa Coffee, I led major organisational changes to support growth, driving a 4% year-on-year increase in engagement. I co-designed and launched the Talent Camp with the Talent Director, reaching 200+ Directors and Senior Leaders. My leadership also delivered impactful Work Experiences, Adult Work Placements, and Apprenticeships, benefiting over 800 people in a single year. Internationally, I implemented learning and development programs in new and existing markets, including China and France.

At Lloyds Banking Group, I played a key role in the Corporate University, leading Academies and Professional Development. I introduced the Academy framework, and the Group HR Inspired Brilliance Award remains a proud achievement from this initiative. 

At my core, I’m a relationship builder, a champion of people, and a firm believer in creating opportunities for others to be their best. Friends, family, and meaningful connections drive me—and that’s what gets me out of bed every day.