IOSH appoints new Chief Executive

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) today (Wednesday 12 December 2012) announced the appointment of Jan Chmiel (say “Yan Sha-Meal”) as Chief Executive.

Currently CEO of the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA), Jan will succeed outgoing Chief Executive Rob Strange OBE in April.

Jan said: “I look forward to working with all IOSH members and staff in taking the organisation forward and delivering on its ambitious future strategy. It’s an exciting time to be joining this successful team as IOSH is best placed to address the challenges of improving occupational safety and health in a changing world.”

IOSH announced in March that Rob would step down after 12 years in charge. It has been a hugely successful period in the Institution’s history that has seen its membership increase to more than 40,000 and the award of a Royal Charter.

Rob said: “I have known Jan since he became chief executive of IEMA and have a very great respect for him and for his achievements and experience. I have every confidence that the excellent growth and progress IOSH has made during my tenure as CEO will continue under Jan’s leadership.”

Rob leaves to take on a portfolio of trustee and non-executive roles and pursue interests outside of work.

"It has been an honour and a privilege to spend 12 years as Chief Executive of IOSH, and I am proud of all we have achieved together over that period of time. I now look forward to working with Jan over the coming months to ensure a smooth and efficient hand-over.” He said.

IOSH Board of Trustees chair Keith Underhill said:

“I would like to thank Rob for what he has achieved during his tenure, in particular raising the profile of IOSH and increasing our membership to the level it is today. I am looking forward to working with Jan, who has demonstrated that he is an inspirational leader. I am sure he will drive our strategy forward so the organisation and our members achieve greater recognition.”