IES announces new institute director, Tony Wilson

IES News

2 Aug 2018

Tony Wilson, currently Director of Policy and Research at the Learning and Work Institute, has been appointed as Director (Chief Executive) of IES, upon the retirement of Nigel Meager, who has led the Institute for the past 14 years.

A recognised expert in employment research, Tony brings more than fifteen years’ experience in research and policy development in employment, skills and welfare to the role; with a decade in central government positions, including Head of Employment Policy at HM Treasury. This experience makes Tony well-placed to lead us to the next stage of our development.

Welcoming the appointment, David Smith, Chair of the IES Board of Trustees said:

'Tony has a strong professional profile and is widely known for his expertise in employment policy and practice - topics central to IES’ work. My fellow trustees and I have every confidence that he will inspire a new phase in the development of the Institute, and look forward to working with him in the years ahead.'

Looking ahead to his appointment, Tony said:

'IES is unique in the UK, in combining applied research and evaluation for public policymakers, with research and consultancy on human resources for employers. I am proud to be joining IES, as it celebrates its 50th anniversary, at a time when the world of work is undergoing significant and disruptive change. I am looking forward to building on everything that has been achieved under Nigel Meager’s leadership, responding to the challenge posed by Brexit and extending the Institute’s reach into new areas.'

Tony will take up the post of institute director on 1 October 2018, leading a team of over 40 multidisciplinary staff based across our Brighton and London offices.