BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, has appointed Sharron Gunn as its new group chief executive.

Gunn takes over leadership of the professional body for information technology, from interim CEO Rob Deri. She has been working for BCS since February to transform its learning and development and membership divisions.

Previously Gunn held leadership roles at the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), including Executive Director for Membership, Commercial and Shared Services and most recently, Chief Operating Officer.

During her time at ICAEW, Gunn created the Academy of Professional Development and championed several EDI initiatives, including the Women in Leadership programme.

Gunn also led the Institute’s involvement in Rise, an initiative aimed at enhancing social mobility by equipping young people with essential business skills.

Earlier, she spent seven years at Sainsbury’s in strategic financial management roles.

“It is a huge privilege to be asked to lead the professional body for IT, at a time when emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing are transforming society and the economy,” Gunn said.

“That’s why focussing on the value of professional qualifications, certifications and Chartered status, as a way of demonstrating trust in our vital profession, is more important than ever before.

“We are already developing our five-year strategy to ensure BCS is in the best position to respond to dynamic policy and market changes, for example the creation of Skills England.

“Even in the age of AI, technology is about the people leading and creating it. I want to make sure anyone working in a technology role can consider BCS their professional home. Joining our incredible membership community, including Fellowship, should be within reach of the broadest possible range of people, united by an aspiration to prove not just competence, but commitment to ethical practice and accountability.”

BCS President Daljit Rehal said: “Sharron brings unrivalled experience in maximising the impact and influence of professional bodies. She has a clear vision for developing the breadth of BCS’ membership and for ensuring the tech profession is seen as a trusted partner across industry and government.

“My thanks on behalf of our entire community go to Rob as interim CEO for his commitment to the cause of Making IT Good for Society.”

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Outgoing interim CEO Rob Deri said:  “I want to thank our members, staff and the range of organisations who work with BCS for the support they have shown me and the leadership team.

“Sharron will be an outstanding CEO with the dedication to ensure BCS brings together professionals in diverse areas from cyber-security to government, to academia, who all share the ambition to make the voice of our profession heard where it matters.”

Rob will remain as part of BCS’ governance structure, as Chair of the Executive Board, a non-executive role, supporting the President and CEO.