A new CIPD president has been appointed to serve as a spokesperson and ambassador on behalf of the profession and its professional body.
The Rt Hon Chloe Smith will replace Baroness Ruby McGregor Smith. She is a former Conservative MP and former Work and Pensions Secretary.
Smith, who has also served as minister for science, innovation, and technology, is well-versed in dealing with technology and people. He is also experienced with employment and technological issues.
She was a minister of disabled people, health, and employment in the past. In that role, she protected the Equality Act, and helped introduce the British Sign Language Act.
Smith’s background as a management consultant and her time in Parliament have been marked by her involvement in global economics and regulation, risk, and governance. She was named the UK’s top technology influencer in 2023. In May 2024, she returned to the private sector after leaving parliament.
She returned to support innovation in start-ups, larger organisations, and as a trustee of the deafness and cancer charities Big C and RNID. As the CIPD president, she now aims at fostering connections between business, policy and academia.
Peter Cheese, the chief executive of the CIPD said: “Chloe’s extensive experience and connections are a great asset for the CIPD. Her passion for technology and people aligns with CIPD goals to help individuals and organisations thrive, and navigate a rapidly changing world. “We’re thrilled to welcome her as the new president of CIPD.”
Smith said: “I’m thrilled to be taking on the role as president of the CIPD. I am looking forward to using my experience in government and the private sector to support the CIPD’s mission to promote better work and working life.
It is vital to promote the impact of the people profession across the business, academic and policy communities in the UK at this time of rapid change for workplaces and workers. I am a strong believer in the mission of the people profession, which is gaining strategic importance day by day as talent continues to be at the top of the agenda for business.
The CIPD announced the new appointment and thanked Baroness McGregor Smith for her three-year support, her contributions as a distinguished leader in business and advocate for diversity, equality and inclusion.
Subscribe to our weekly HR news and guidance
Every Wednesday, receive the Personnel Today Direct newsletter.
Human Resources Director Opportunities on Personnel Today
Find more HR Director jobs
