Interim chief takes on Careers role permanently
CAREERS Wales has appointed a new chief executive.
Nikki Lawrence has spent the past year in the post of interim chief executive after Graham Bowd stood down last summer.
A qualified accountant (ACMA) with more than 20 years’ experience in senior positions in both the public and private sectors, Ms Lawrence worked in the NHS, manufacturing and construction industries before joining Careers Wales.
She joined Careers Wales in 2004 as finance and corporate services manager in the northwest and has since managed a full range of corporate functions including finance, HR, IT, quality and planning.
When Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa (CCDG) was formed, she was appointed head of finance, before progressing to director of resources and, more recently, to director of corporate services.
Following the departure of Graham Bowd, Ms Lawrence stepped into the role of interim chief executive and, following a recruitment process, has been appointed to take on the position on a permanent basis.
Speaking on her appointment, Ms Lawrence said: “Since joining the organisation more than 15 years ago, Careers Wales has undergone significant changes. Through working in a range of leadership roles across the company during these times, I’ve gained valuable first-hand insight into the business at key points in its development.
“My initial priority is ensuring a smooth transition to this role, and I look forward to working constructively with stakeholders and staff to help guide the service through the next chapter.
“The upcoming major transformation agenda will necessitate strong leadership across the organisation, and I am looking forward to helping prepare Wales’ national careers service for the road ahead.”