After a successful four-year tenure as IPSE’s CEO, Derek Cribb left IPSE on 30th August 2024. On behalf of IPSE’s Board of Directors, I would like to thank Derek for all that he’s achieved with us in that time and wish him all the very best in his next challenge.  

Having taken the helm at IPSE at the height of the pandemic, we would like to especially commend Derek for steering the organisation through the challenges this posed and stabilising our balance sheet at a time of economic uncertainty.  

He then worked closely with the Board to shape a new strategic direction for IPSE; one that combines authoritative research, advocacy and influencing with becoming the provider of a full range of services and benefits to help the self-employed succeed in their careers. Derek oversaw key changes and new appointments to IPSE’s team to reflect our evolving ambitions, culminating with a transformation of IPSE’s brand, website and member benefits.  

The Board has now commenced the process to recruit Derek’s replacement, with the goal of attracting candidates with the skillsets and experience to further stimulate the growth and retention of IPSE’s membership; enhancing the IPSE member experience; and strengthening IPSE’s unique position as the only not-for-profit membership organisation dedicated to the self-employed.  

The recruitment process will be managed by the Board. Whilst this is underway, I am pleased to confirm that IPSE’s Director of Finance, Ankita Patel, has agreed to step in as Acting-CEO until a permanent appointment is made.  

Acting-CEO Ankita Patel said: “In the eighteen months I have worked alongside Derek, he has been a continuous source of advice and support. I’m extremely grateful for his guidance throughout this time, and he will be greatly missed.  

“It’s a privilege to perform the role of IPSE’s Acting-CEO and am delighted to have the support of IPSE’s Board of Directors and senior leadership team as I take on this exciting new challenge.”