The REC have announced that their Chief Executive Neil Carberry will step down from his position at the end of September 2026. He will lead the transition to a new CEO before departing for his new role as Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).
The search for a successor has begun and will be led by REC Chair, Michelle Mellor and the REC Board, supported by Neil.
The well-established REC executive team will continue to lead the business alongside Neil to deliver crucial support for REC members at a pivotal time for the labour market and economy.
“I want to thank Neil for his outstanding dedication to the REC and our industry over the last eight years in his role of Chief Executive, and to congratulate him on his new appointment at the CIPD,” said REC Chair Michelle Mellor. “Neil has brought exceptional energy, expertise, and passion to his work. His commitment to the industry has been unwavering often demonstrated through his extensive travel across the UK to meet members and ensure we consistently delivered the highest standards of service.
“Whilst Neil will be greatly missed, both I and the Board have every confidence in our strong executive team to provide continuity and stability as we transition to a new CEO. Thanks to the hard work and leadership of Neil and the wider team, we are in a strong position to continue to support our members and our sector, particularly as we look ahead to celebrating the REC’s centenary.”
Commenting on his departure Neil Carberry said: “It has been a privilege to lead the REC over the last 8 years. My abiding memories will be of the brilliance of recruiters across the country in facing up to challenging times – from the pandemic to the hiring slowdown of the past two years. I have seen the difference they make to clients and candidates alike, especially when firms take a long-term view of what their recruiters do – delivering a true professional service.
“The REC is uniquely positioned to help talent businesses with support and representation at a time when everything is changing in our sector, from regulation to technology,” he added. “Together, we have built an organisation that always puts its members at the heart of everything it does. This will still be the case as our fantastic team take things forward after my departure. Until I leave, I will be focused until the last minute on getting agencies the best conditions to thrive and contribute to economic growth. From tackling ill thought-through Guaranteed Hours proposals to support on technology adoption – there is still plenty to do!
“I want to finish by thanking the REC team for all their work over the past eight years, and our Board for their commitment and support. The new Chief Executive will be taking on one of the UK’s most visible, influential and important trade associations as the organisation approaches its centenary. There is much exciting work to be done. I have made great friendships with REC members and colleagues and will remain an advocate for everything recruiters do.”
