CILEx appoints chief operating officer

21 July 2015

The Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) has today announced the appointment of its new chief operating officer, Linda Ford, who will take up the post on 24 August.

Linda (pictured), who is currently head of the Education and Standards Directorate at the General Optical Council (GOC), will focus on implementing CILEx’s business plan through the efficient and effective delivery of existing and new products and services, professional schemes and qualifications.

Commenting on her new role, Linda said: “I am delighted to be joining the CILEx team at such an exciting time, with significant changes in the way legal services are delivered and the opportunities provided by practice rights and the ability for Chartered Legal Executives to establish entities.”

She continued: “The CILEx approach, providing flexible training pathways and world class qualifications, provides a solid foundation to meet the future needs of the legal sector and I look forward to working with the team to determine how we can continue to train and support our members and Fellows in response to these changing demands.”

Chief executive of CILEx Mandie Lavin said: “Linda brings tremendous breadth and depth of experience to this role. Her track record of achievement and delivery make her ideally suited to lead our operations during a time of reform, challenge and change.”

Current chief operating officer Helen Whiteman commences her role as chief executive of CILEx Regulation on 1 September.

BIOGRAPHY:

Linda Ford currently leads the Education and Standards Directorate at the General Optical Council (GOC), the UK regulatory body for optical professionals and businesses. Her portfolio includes standards of conduct, competence and performance, training and qualifications, education strategy, CPD and international activities.

Linda joined the GOC in 2007 having previously worked for the Police Service on a number of high profile local and national projects focussing on public safety, counter terrorism and drugs awareness. Prior to that, Linda worked in adult Further Education specialising in qualification and curriculum development.

Linda has a BA (Hons) degree in History and post graduate qualifications in Regulatory Affairs, Management and Education. She is currently studying for an MBA.

ENDS