Simon Edwards will take up the post of Director of Professional Services in late November.
Simon currently works in a senior role as a change manager at West Sussex County Council. Prior to this he was Development Director at Museums Libraries and Archives South East and delivered a number of national projects. He has a proven track record in change management, strategic planning and in supporting teams and people.
“It is a challenging time for both CILIP and the wider library and information sector,” Simon Edwards said, “I am excited by the opportunity to join CILIP in this new role and look forward to developing the offer to members in line with the feedback and challenges presented by the Defining our Professional Future project. I am looking forward to engaging with members from across the sector to ensure that the services we provide are relevant and high quality.”
CILIP Chief Executive Annie Mauger said, “We are delighted to welcome Simon to the team. His skills in working with people and managing change will be a great asset and I know he will be a huge help in ensuring that our Continuous Professional Development offer is accessible and relevant. Simon has direct experience of being part of a CILIP branch committee and will bring that with him to his work in supporting members and stakeholders. He has also worked strategically with government and will be a great advocate for the profession.”
The Professional Services directorate is focused on delivering services to members, creating community and active recruitment by bringing together areas of activity that relate directly to members. It includes three teams; Continuous Professional Development (CPD), Customer Services and Facet Publishing.
The CPD team provide advice about qualifications to students, Chartership candidates, employers and education providers. Customer Services support members, CILIP Branches and Special Interest Groups with advice and information, and also administer membership joining and renewal. Facet Publishing produces a wealth of professional titles. The quality and relevance of Facet titles are linked directly to CILIP’s CPD services.