The Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) has announced the appointment of Chris Wilford to the role of Policy and Public Affairs Manager. CIArb is a global professional body governed by Royal Charter. With over 12,500 members worldwide, CIArb’s role is to promote, facilitate and develop of all forms of private dispute resolution. Wilford will initially be working to build the public presence and public affairs function of CIArb in the UK and EU.
Wilford joins the organisation from the Recruitment and Employment Confederation where he was Senior Policy and Public Affairs Advisor. He has also worked as parliamentary researcher for Lord Lingfield where he was involved with educational reform issues in the House of Lords.
Yvonne Hanly, CIArb Director of Professional Services said:
“We are delighted that Chris is joining us to develop our policy and public affairs function. With issues as diverse as press regulation, sweeping changes in the legal services industry and the increasing profile of Sharia law, this is an incredibly exciting time in the world of alternative dispute resolution. It is vital that we dispel some of the myths about ADR and highlight the value of the work of dispute resolution practitioners. With his background in public affairs and strategic communications, Chris will make a valuable contribution to this effort. “
Speaking about his new role, Chris Wilford said:
“I am thrilled to be joining CIArb as their new Policy and Public Affairs Manager. With, among other things, the on-going debate on Leveson’s proposals for an arbitration scheme and the cross-party press charter, this is a challenging time for all of those involved in ADR. I look forward to working with colleagues and members of this prestigious organisation to promote the value of all forms of private dispute resolution.”