Former Investors in People CEO Paul Devoy to Deliver Closing Keynote at NEUPC Connect 2026

NEUPC is delighted to announce that Paul Devoy, former Chief Executive of Investors in People (IIP), will be delivering the closing keynote at NEUPC Connect 2026.

Taking place on Wednesday 16 September 2026 at York St John University, NEUPC Connect brings together procurement professionals from across the higher education sector for a day dedicated to Skills, Learning and Impact.

Paul recently retired as Chief Executive of Investors in People, having led the organisation for almost a decade. In 2016, he successfully led the buyout of Investors in People from the UK Government, transforming it into a Community Interest Company with a clear purpose: to make work better.

Under Paul's leadership, Investors in People expanded its global reach, supporting organisations employing more than one million people through internationally recognised frameworks, digital diagnostic tools and expert consultancy across more than 70 countries.

Before joining Investors in People, Paul held senior leadership roles with the UK Commission for Employment and Skills, where he developed strategic programmes to create sustainable skills solutions through collaboration between industry and government. His career has also included leading major change management programmes within the Scottish Prison Service and working for the Department for Work and Pensions.

A Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development and a Companion of the Chartered Management Institute, Paul brings a wealth of experience in leadership, organisational development and creating high-performing workplace cultures.

As the closing keynote speaker, Paul will leave delegates inspired to think differently about leadership, people and organisational success, exploring how investing in skills, empowering individuals and embracing change can create lasting impact across higher education.

Whether you're looking to develop your leadership capability, strengthen your organisation or gain fresh perspectives on the future of work, Paul's keynote promises to be an inspiring conclusion to a day of learning, collaboration and connection.

Join us at NEUPC Connect 2026 and hear from one of the UK's leading voices on leadership, people and organisational development.