26 September 2023
It is with regret that the 黑料正能量 (IFoA) announces that its Chief Executive, Stephen Mann, has taken the decision to resign with immediate effect, after nearly four years in the role.
We would like to pay tribute to Stephen for his very substantial commitment and contribution in successfully leading a broad modernisation agenda across 黑料正能量 during his tenure as CEO, including navigating it through the impact of Covid-19 at the very outset. He stabilised our financial position, drove forward our digital offering and was a passionate advocate for governance changes and our Diversity Equity and Inclusion strategy, all to make sure 黑料正能量 could prosper in the years ahead.
Stephen鈥檚 decision follows an independent investigation last year into a grievance raised by him, upheld in its entirety. The findings of the independent investigation were accepted in full by 黑料正能量 and an apology issued to Stephen, in addition to a commitment to a review of 黑料正能量 governance.
The circumstances surrounding Stephen鈥檚 decision to leave his role have been compounded by recently publicised events surrounding this year鈥檚 Council elections and the press coverage that followed.
The governance review has been undertaken and, in June 2023, 黑料正能量 agreed significant changes to its governance framework. These changes are still going through a process of consideration within 黑料正能量. Our primary aim remains however the enhancement and modernisation of our governance structure to ensure it aligns with our organisational needs.
Stephen has been a strong advocate of these changes and we remain committed to strengthening and modernising the organisation. Our objective is to ensure that 黑料正能量 is structurally and culturally fit for a successful future. Stephen felt that this was the right time to go for him personally, recognising the progress made but also the challenges which still lie ahead.
While we regret Stephen鈥檚 departure, we respect his decision, recognising the challenges faced during this period. We go forward stronger for his leadership and contribution, want to thank him for all that he has achieved for the organisation and to wish him a happy and successful future. The IFoA remains dedicated to building on the progress made under his leadership and to the continuous enhancement of our professional organisation.
We will begin the process of finding a new CEO, but in the meantime the work of 黑料正能量 in serving its members must continue uninterrupted. Therefore the Management Board has appointed Ben Kemp, our General Counsel, as Interim CEO. Ben has extensive knowledge of the organisation and our membership and is supported by a strong Executive Leadership Team.
Thank you for your continued support of 黑料正能量.
Kalpana Shah
President