Rob Whiteman is to retire as CEO of the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) in June 2024, bringing to an end what will be more than a decade in the post.
Whiteman said the timing “feels right” to leave the position, while CIPFA has appointed a recruitment agency to lead an immediate search for a new CEO.
“I would like to thank members and those involved in CIPFA’s governance for their support in delivering such considerable change. We are a modern and effective organisation with a sound financial platform and strong policy voice that has fused our charitable objectives with commercial growth,” Whiteman said.
“It’s never an easy decision, but the time feels right for me now to retire as a CEO and concentrate on making a contribution in a different way through a portfolio. And, a little more time for myself and the family will be nice too.
“I’m sure CIPFA’s best years lie ahead, and I look forward to seeing it go from success to success.”
During his time as CEO, Whiteman has given CIPFA a greater profile, with the charity most recently being appointed to lead assurance reviews of councils at financial or leadership risk by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC).
He has also lobbied for local government on various issues such as for sustainable funding, strong local governance and on audit publication deadlines.
However, in this time, CIPFA has also received some criticism. In May last year, it rejected a proposal that could have allowed members to review in full the independent report into the failure of its London Counter Fraud Hub. A move which led some to question CIPFA’s transparency, corporate governance and democracy.
Commenting on his retirement, Caroline Rassell, CIPFA president, described Whiteman as “a fantastic steward” for the organisation. She said: “His knowledge of public finance and accountancy and his passion for public services will be sorely missed by all of us who have had the pleasure of working with him and the institute over the years.
“I know that he will be leaving CIPFA in a much stronger position than when he took on the role. We lose a major advocate and trusted voice.”
Other tributes have also been paid to the outgoing CEO. Cat Little, head of the government finance function and second permanent secretary to HM Treasury, said: “Rob has led the institute with passion and conviction through some of the biggest challenges facing the public sector and our profession. It is an exciting time for CIPFA and its membership, thanks to Rob’s leadership and stewardship. We will miss him greatly and look forward to supporting Rob and his successor through the transition.”
Catherine Francis, DLUHC director general for local government, resilience and communities, said: “As chief executive of CIPFA, Rob Whiteman has been a constant source of wisdom and expertise on the subject of local government finance, both for leaders in the sector and central government.
“He has been integral to strengthening and guiding the finance function in the sector, supporting leaders and officers in their vital work, and advocating for local government with ministers and civil servants in a persuasive and constructive way. I wish him all the best for the future, with grateful thanks for his contribution.”
Sir Tony Redmond, who as CIPFA president appointed Whiteman to the role, said: “Throughout his term of office, Rob has demonstrated outstanding vision, leadership and enterprise in developing CIPFA’s brand in very positive way.
“His thoughtful, engaging and perceptive style has also been a major asset for the institute, operating in a challenging environment, in terms of public finance and the institute’s membership.”
Gareth Davies, National Audit Office comptroller and auditor general, said: “Rob has made a huge contribution to public service, showing leadership in tough situations and speaking up for responsible financial management.”
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