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REC appoints Bev White as chair-designate

White said: "I’m proud to take on a role that carries both responsibility and real opportunity to shape what comes next in the recruitment industry.”

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The Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) has named Bev White (pictured) as chair-designate, with confirmation due at the AGM later this year. 

White, executive chair at Harvey Nash and Crimson, will join REC at a time of change for the sector, with technology, regulation and geopolitics reshaping recruitment.

Mellor will step down in October.

White said: “I’m incredibly honoured to be appointed Chair of the REC at such a pivotal moment for our industry. 

“As the REC approaches its centenary, it has never been more important that we reflect the full breadth of our membership and the role we play in supporting organisations and individuals through constant change. 

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“The recruitment industry sits at the heart of how the UK grows and adapts, and I’m proud to take on a role that carries both responsibility and real opportunity to shape what comes next.”

White added: “What matters most to me is that every member feels heard and represented. 

“The REC is a powerful platform to influence how businesses, government and society think about talent, skills and the future of work, and I bring a real curiosity about how forces like AI, while often seen as a threat, can unlock entirely new opportunities. 

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“My focus will be on making sure our industry’s voice is not only heard but acted on, and that we support our members to navigate and lead through what is a fast-moving and hugely important time.”

Michelle Mellor, chair at REC, said: “Serving this incredible trade association for the UK recruitment industry as Chair over the last three years, has been the honour of my career.

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“The recruitment sector has faced unprecedented change during that time and the pace of transformation shows no sign of slowing. 

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“From the emergence of new technologies to the uncertainty created by political and economic developments both at home and abroad, our industry continues to navigate a uniquely challenging environment.”

Mellor added: “The REC will require strong, thoughtful leadership in the years ahead and I am delighted to be handing over to Bev who brings the experience, judgement and leadership qualities needed to guide the REC and support our members through the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

“It has been a privilege to serve alongside such dedicated Board and committee colleagues, members and the REC team. 

“I leave the role immensely proud of what we have achieved together and confident that under Bev’s leadership, the REC will continue to go from strength to strength.”

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Neil Carberry, chief executive at REC, said: “Michelle’s entrepreneurialism and energy have been a huge asset to our organisation over her three years as Chair. 

“She is leaving REC a more resilient and dynamic organisation.

“Bev White is a stellar addition to the REC, with extensive experience and success in our sector.” 

Carberry added: “We have a shared understanding that people are not a component but actually really vital to the success of British business. 

“Bev White and REC are aligned on how temporary and contract work is essential to economic growth, at all skill levels, and how permanent hiring needs to change alongside it to take a more long-term view.”

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