Former BSB director is new CILEx chief executive

The Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) has today announced that Mandie Lavin is to be appointed as its new chief executive.

Upon her appointment, Lavin said: "I am thrilled to be joining CILEx in the midst of many exciting developments, and to continue the excellent work the organisation has done for more than fifty years.

"CILEx has built a reputation as a progressive organisation, and has achieved pioneering developments in legal education, member services and regulation. I am greatly looking forward to supporting CILEx's staff and members as they take on new practice rights and continue their admirable work."

Lavin is also currently director of regulation at the General Optical Council, and is a former director of the Bar Standards Board. The new CEO also qualified as a nurse before becoming a barrister and being called to the bar in 1993 as a member of Middle Temple.

Lavin will take over the post on 1 January 2015, upon the retirement of Diane Burleigh OBE.

Newly appointed CILEx president Frances Edwards lamented the departure of Burleigh, who has lead the organisation for fifteen years before praising the appointment of Lavin: "[Burleigh] has brought about a radical change in the standing of CILEx and its members, and her legacy will be testament to her formidable efforts.

"Mandie brings with her an impressive track record and forward thinking attitude. She will make an excellent addition to the CILEx family, and we greatly look forward to her taking up the post in 2015," she added.