The Freelancer & Contractor Services Association has congratulated Louise Hanson on her appointment as the next Chief Executive of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation, and looks forward to close collaboration in support of the UK’s flexible workforce.
The Freelancer and Contractor Services Association (FCSA) is delighted to congratulate Louise Hanson on her appointment as the next Chief Executive of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC). Ms Hanson will take up the role later this year, succeeding Neil Carberry OBE, who steps down after eight years at the helm to become Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).
Ms Hanson joins the REC from the Law Society, where she has served as Executive Director for Membership and External Affairs since 2019. She brings a wealth of experience in membership organisations and public affairs, having previously held the role of Director of Advocacy at the Association of British Insurers. Her expertise across policy, campaigns, strategy, commercial services and member experience will be a considerable asset to the recruitment sector at a pivotal moment for the world of work.
FCSA and the REC share a longstanding commitment to raising standards, championing compliance, and safeguarding the interests of the millions of people who work flexibly across the UK economy. As the leading membership body for umbrella employers, contractor accountants and CIS payroll providers, FCSA works closely with partners across the sector to protect contractors and support the recruitment supply chain.
“On behalf of FCSA and our members, I warmly congratulate Louise Hanson on her appointment. Louise takes on the leadership of the REC at a time of significant change for the labour market — from the adoption of AI and shifting regulation to persistent skills shortages and evolving expectations of work. Her deep experience in membership and external affairs makes her ideally placed to guide the recruitment industry through it. We look forward to working closely with Louise and her team to advance compliance, protect workers, and support a thriving, professional flexible workforce.”
— Chris Bryce, Chief Executive, FCSA
In accepting the role, Ms Hanson said it would be “a privilege to build on the work of Neil and the team,” describing this as “an exciting time to join” given the scale of political and business change facing employers and workers alike.
Maxine Bligh, the REC’s Chief Membership & Innovation Officer, will serve as interim Chief Executive during the autumn before handing over to Ms Hanson.
FCSA extends its thanks to Neil Carberry for his years of constructive engagement and collaboration, and wishes him every success in his new role at the CIPD. We look forward to welcoming Louise Hanson to the sector and to building a strong and productive partnership in the years ahead.
