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REC appoints Louise Hanson as CEO

She will take over from Neil Carberry OBE in September, with Carberry set to join the CIPD as CEO after eight years at REC.

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Louise Hanson
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The Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) has appointed Louise Hanson (pictured) as chief executive (CEO). 

She will take over from Neil Carberry OBE in September, with Carberry set to join the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) as CEO after eight years at REC.

Hanson has worked in public affairs, policy, campaigns, strategy, commercial services, member experience and organisational transformation. 

She joined the Law Society in 2019 and is currently executive director for membership and external affairs. 

Before that, she was director of advocacy at the Association of British Insurers (ABI).

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Hanson said: “I am delighted to be appointed as the next Chief Executive of REC. 

“It will be a privilege to build on the work of Neil and the team, ensuring REC stays as the most powerful and influential voice of an industry that shapes the labour market and supports business across the UK. 

“With the current pace of political and business change, REC’s work to support members and its commitment to high standards feels more important than ever.”

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Hanson added: “It is an exciting time to join and it will be great to get started.”

Michelle Mellor, chair at REC, said: “Appointing the right Chief Executive to lead the REC into its next chapter was one of the most important responsibilities of my time as Chair and together with the Board, REC member search firm Vox Partners and the Executive Team, we ran a rigorous, thorough process to get it right. 

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“Louise stood out against strong competition and brings the leadership and membership body experience the REC needs for what comes next. 

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“As I hand over the position of Chair alongside this appointment, I do so with complete confidence that the organisation is in the best possible hands.”

Bev White, chair-elect at REC, said: “I’m excited to welcome Louise to the REC at such a critical time for our industry. 

“From AI and the Employment Rights Act to skills shortages and shifting attitudes to EDI, our members need strong leadership more than ever, and I look forward to partnering with her as the incoming Chair of the REC.”

Maxine Bligh, chief membership and innovation officer at REC, will be interim CEO in the autumn. 

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Bligh said: “It is a privilege to lead the REC this autumn at such a pivotal moment for our industry, before handing over to Louise later in the year. 

“As the market starts to recover, our focus is clear: ensuring the new Prime Minister understands the vital role a flexible labour market plays in driving growth and delivering public services, while supporting REC members through legislative change so they can help clients seize opportunities and succeed.”

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