Hague started his new role on Monday. He is now responsible for the department’s 1,100-strong HR team, which makes sure the right people with the right skills are in the right jobs.
As CPO, he also oversees HR services, which include the operation of the payroll system and the online employee HR system where staff can book leave, view their payslips and claim travel expenses.
He is responsible for ensuring that HMRC meets its corporate responsibilities, for example, working to reduce its carbon footprint, and encouraging staff to volunteer and get involved in their communities.
His job also makes him accountable for the governance and delivery of HMRC’s learning and talent activities, which means he has to ensure the department has a robust learning offering, so that people may develop their careers.
“I’m excited about the challenge that working in HMRC brings," he said. "In my first few days, it has been hugely encouraging seeing how HMRC is full of people with commitment and professionalism. It is a privilege being a part of this organisation and I’m focused on making the HR function the best it can be.”
Hague began his civil service career at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), where he held a number of roles in policy as well as Jobcentre Plus operational management, before becoming HR business partner, supporting the business on all things relating to HR.
He left DWP in 2008 for the Home Office and took up the role as HR director responsible for the office’s Authorised Pensions Administration Centre.
In his post at the Cabinet Office, he led the reform of civil service pensions, pay and wider workforce transformation.