The Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb), the world’s leading qualifications and professional body for the promotion of alternative dispute resolution, is pleased to announce the appointment of Catherine Dixon as Director General with effect from 1 May 2020. Catherine will succeed Anthony Abrahams who has retired following eight years in post.

Catherine joins CIArb having just completed a world-record breaking circumnavigation of the world on a tandem. Prior to her expedition Catherine spent time in chief executive roles at the Law Society of England and Wales, Askham Bryan College and NHS Resolution. Catherine has also held senior leadership roles at the NSPCC and BUPA. Catherine has served as a trustee and non-executive director on a number of boards, including the Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution and she is currently a trustee of Stonewall. Catherine is a non-practising solicitor and accredited mediator.

Jonathan Wood MCIArb, Chair of CIArb’s Board of Trustees, said: ‘We are delighted to have appointed someone of the calibre of Catherine to the role of Director General. She brings to CIArb a wealth of experience and understanding of the alternative dispute resolution world and the Board looks forward to working closely with her to promote and develop the work of CIArb globally.’

Commenting on her appointment, Catherine, said: ‘I am honoured to have been appointed to this prestigious role and to lead the continued growth of CIArb which I know to be at the forefront of thought-leadership, training, standards and ethics in alternative dispute resolution. I am looking forward to working closely with CIArb’s members to grow membership whilst continuing to ensure that the CIArb is at the forefront of alternative dispute resolution across the world.’

The Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) is a Royal Charter body and charity established in 1915 with over 16,000 members across the world. It exists to promote and facilitate all forms of alternative dispute resolution as an alternative to litigation.