The Institute of Leadership (IoL) has appointed Annette Wade-Clarke as Interim Managing Director, as the organisation enters an important new phase.
Annette joined the Institute at the start of the summer as Head of Membership and Marketing, leading membership, marketing, communications and engagement. She joined the Senior Leadership Team and has quickly become closely involved in the Institute’s wider strategic and organisational work.
The appointment follows the announcement that John Mark Williams will step down as Chief Executive at the end of the year, after six years in the role.
Commenting on the appointment, Emrys Green, Chair of Trustees at the Institute of Leadership, said:
“The Trustees have carefully considered what the Institute needs as it moves into this next phase, and we believe Annette has the experience, leadership capability and understanding of professional membership organisations to lead the organisation through it.
“Although Annette has only been with the Institute since the start of the summer, she has already made a strong contribution and demonstrated the breadth of experience and leadership that she brings. We are delighted that she has agreed to take on the role of Interim Managing Director.”
Annette brings more than 25 years’ experience across professional membership, education, skills, communications, commercial development and organisational leadership. Her previous roles include Director of Membership and Marketing at the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL), Chief Communications and Engagement Officer at the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA), and Interim Chief Executive Officer at CASCAID.
Across these roles, she has led teams and worked with boards and senior stakeholders on strategy, organisational development, commercial growth, membership and customer engagement, as well as periods of organisational change and transition. Her career to date has given her direct experience of stepping into organisational leadership at a time of change, providing strategic direction, working closely with boards and senior teams, and ensuring organisations continue to move forward.
The appointment was made following a robust and competitive recruitment and selection process, which included both internal and external candidates.
“I am delighted to take on the role of Interim Managing Director. It is an honour to have the opportunity to lead the Institute through this next phase.
“I joined the Institute because I believe strongly in its purpose and in the importance of good leadership to individuals, organisations and wider society. In the short time I have been here, I have already seen the commitment and expertise that exists across the organisation, as well as the opportunities ahead.
“I am looking forward to working with colleagues, Trustees, members and partners to build on what the Institute does well, strengthen our foundations and continue to develop our role as a leading professional body for leadership.”
Annette will work closely with John during the transition period, alongside the Senior Leadership Team and Trustees, to ensure continuity and an effective handover of responsibilities before his departure.
“We would also like to recognise John’s contribution to the Institute over the past six years. He has led the organisation through an important period of development and has made a significant contribution to its work and profile. We are grateful for his commitment and leadership and will work closely with him to ensure a positive and well-managed transition over the coming months.”
The appointment comes at an important time for the Institute as it builds on its strengths, deepens its impact and continues to raise the profile of leadership as a profession.
The Institute of Leadership is the professional body for leadership. It is a leading voice for leadership and management, setting the standard for what good leadership looks like and supporting leaders and managers to make a positive difference in their organisations and wider society.
