Blair, who founded the business back in the mid-90s – having established the division as part of James Caan’s Alexander Mann Group before heading a management buy-out – takes on the role of chair of the company’s board.

Leigh, who was most recently chair and previously CEO of international education provider Study Group, and CEO of talent assessment and analytics specialist SHL, said he was excited to continue leading the market in the next wave of talent innovation. 

“AMS has an unsurpassed ability to support clients in delivering strategic and agile workforce solutions, and I believe strongly this will be ever more in demand as the world of work continues to go through exponential change. I am thrilled to be joining such a great team.”

Under Blair’s leadership, AMS, which was acquired by OMERS, the defined benefit pension plan for municipal employees in Ontario Canada, has grown to more than 4,500 employees operating in more than 100 countries globally.

Commenting on her move, Blair revealed she has been working closely with the firm’s board over the past 12 months to identify the right individual to lead the business for the next stage of its evolution.

“I am delighted to welcome David Leigh to the AMS family as our next CEO. I have great confidence in both David and the phenomenal talent that exists throughout the company. 

“My passion for, and commitment to, AMS remains as strong now as it has ever been, and I am so proud of everything we have achieved to date. I believe the world of work is going to see seismic change as a result of technological, demographic and cultural shifts.

“I see my new role as helping David to set strategy and will work closely with our clients to ensure they get the best from AMS.”

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