Rob Whiteman to retire as CIPFA CEO

Rob Whiteman has decided to step down from the role of CIPFA CEO as he plans to retire in June 2024.

Whiteman has been a CEO at CIPFA for the past decade and under his leadership, the organisation has gone through significant transformation.

It has seen growth in its international student numbers and advisory services while continuing to grow and support its UK membership, establishing itself as a global voice of sound public financial management.

Most recently, Whiteman announced an exciting new partnership with ICAEW, culminating in both Institutes signing a joint declaration to work closely together including an accelerated route for students to gain CPFA and ACA designations and dual membership.

Prior to CIPFA, Whiteman held the role of a CEO at the UK Border Agency, the Improvement and Development Agency (IDeA) and London Borough of Barking and Dagenham.

CIPFA has appointed a recruitment agency to hire a new CEO immediately.

Whiteman said: “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.

“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, not least by building on our new partnership with ICAEW.”

Caroline Rassell, CIPFA president, added: “Rob has been a fantastic steward for CIPFA. 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 strong.”