The REC Council has appointed Neil Smith, managing director of manufacturing and engineering recruiter Kinetic, as its new chairman.

Smith has been a member of the REC’s governing body since 2006 and has held the positions of vice chair and finance committee chair.

Smith says of his appointment: “I am delighted to take on the role of chairman at the REC. I’d like to thank the previous chair Angela Masters, who did a fantastic job of ensuring the members are at the centre of everything that the REC does.

“I’ve watched the REC make giant strides over the last two and half years while at the same time supporting its members through a difficult economy. I see one of my most important tasks as being the bridge between the Council and the Executive.

“I am also committed to ensuring that our membership is heard among key stakeholders and that we speak with authority on the importance of the UK’s flexible labour market and where the jobs of the future will come from.”

Kevin Green, chief executive of the REC, says: “Myself and the team are looking forward to working closely with Neil. We believe his energy, drive and knowledge of the industry will be a great asset to the REC.”