Emily Lofting-Kisakye, previously Chief People Officer (CPO) for Cognita Europe and USA, steps into the role of Group CPO to support 21,000+ colleagues worldwide.

We’re pleased to have appointed Emily Lofting-Kisakye as Group Chief People Officer, effective from 1st September. This reflects our deep commitment to building a supportive, values-driven culture and ensuring we remain an exceptional place to work. We have grown to a community of 21,000+ staff across 21 countries with more than 100 schools, serving 100,000+ students.

Building on the strength of our regional HR leads, who tailor support to local contexts, the Group CPO’s areas of focus will include culture, aligning people strategy globally, and ensuring every colleague shares a consistent experience of what it means to be part of Cognita.

In her new role, Lofting-Kisakye joins the Group Executive Team and will report directly to Group CEO Frank Maassen.

Frank Maassen, Group CEO of Cognita, commented:

“As a global leader in education, we place employee wellbeing and a values-led culture at the heart of our success. The position of Group CPO plays a pivotal role in advancing this mission. Emily’s experience, commitment, and clarity of vision make her ideally placed to lead this work. As we continue to expand globally, we are committed to investing in our colleagues’ professional development and personal growth so they can continue to thrive.”

Commenting on her new role, Emily Lofting-Kisakye said:

“I’m honoured to step into this role and build on the great work already underway across our regions. Our people are at the heart of Cognita’s success. I look forward to working with colleagues worldwide to further strengthen our culture, grow our talent, and ensure Cognita remains an outstanding place to work as we continue to expand globally.”

Emily Lofting-Kisakye joined Cognita in June 2020 as HR Director for Europe. Her leadership has strengthened HR operations, onboarding, and employee relations, while playing a key role in supporting acquisition and transformation activity.

She has also been a driving force behind Cognita Europe and USA’s Employee Value Proposition and the launch of its cultural behavioural mindsets, setting a clear framework for leadership and collaboration across our schools. In the area of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, her work has been recognised with three HR Champion nominations at the European Diversity Awards, while Cognita Europe has been shortlisted for Company of the Year.

Prior to joining Cognita, Lofting-Kisakye was HR Director, Europe and International, at Urban Outfitters Europe.