Former Thomas Cook UK chief executive Ian Ailles has been named as director general of the House of Commons.
In the role he will oversee the administration of day-to-day business in the House.
Working with the Clerk of the House he will develop and deliver the future strategy of the House of Commons Service, and lead change across the 1,700 strong staff, according to a formal announcement of his appointment yesterday.
Ailles, who also worked for Wyndham, takes up the position on October 27.
John Bercow, Speaker of the House of Commons, said Ailles “brings with him a huge amount of experience and, as important, enormous enthusiasm” to the role.
“I am looking forward to working with him, and I am sure he will make a valuable contribution to the House,” he said.
Ailles is an accountant who has also held executive, non-executive and consultancy roles for charities, start-up ventures and large organisations in sectors including NHS, education, care homes, IT and banking.
He said: “I am looking forward to working with staff and Members in the House of Commons and I am eager to make my own contribution to this unique organisation.
“I am also excited by the appetite for change reflected in the governance committee report and one of my immediate tasks will be to identify the priority areas for action.”
David Natzler, clerk of the House of Commons, said: “We are delighted to welcome Ian Ailles to the House of Commons as the director general of the House of Commons.
“He brings with him a great deal of professional expertise and an impressive proven track record, as well as enthusiasm to work here. My colleagues and I look forward to working closely with him.”