Bridget Robb given long term mandate to lead British Association of Social Workers

Bridget Robb has been appointed Chief Executive of the British Association of Social Workers  on a permanent basis after emerging successfully from a competitive recruitment process.

Ms Robb was appointed Acting Chief Executive in September 2012 and was then handed a fixed term contract to oversee a strategic review of the organisation, ending in August 2014. The permanent position was advertised externally in March and candidates were interviewed for the role late last month.

Commenting on the appointment, BASW Chair Fran Fuller said: "We were pleased that this important high profile post attracted such a strong field of candidates and gave the panel a rich array of options for who would be best placed to lead BASW and in turn play a key role in leading social work across the UK. 

"Ultimately we felt that Bridget Robb offered the best combination of vision and experience to build on BASW's strengths and pursue new opportunities.

"BASW has defied all the odds to continue growing year on year to a position now where we have a record 15,500 members and ever more influence in all four parts of the UK. I know Bridget will use her permanent appointment to take that success to a new level."

Bridget Robb said: "I am honoured to have secured the post of BASW Chief Executive on a long term basis and am excited at the opportunities that lie ahead for BASW and for the people we support, represent and advocate on behalf of every day.

"Social work can be a deeply rewarding job but it is also extremely challenging and sometimes lonely, which is why the success of a strong professional association is so important.

"I am looking forward to developing BASW's strengths while also exploring new and ambitious opportunities for the betterment of social workers and the vulnerable people throughout the country with whom they engage each and every day of the year."