Project in Brief
UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy) is the leading professional body for psychotherapists and psychotherapeutic counsellors in the UK. Representing more than 11,000 members, UKCP champions the transformative impact of psychotherapy on both individuals and society. Its mission is centred on public protection, high standards of training and clinical practice, and the promotion of psychotherapy as an essential component of the national conversation on mental health.
Specialisms
- Membership
With a stretched internal recruitment team and a newly created role – Head of Governance – UKCP turned to Charity People to help shape the process from the outset.
”One of the pillars in the organisation’s new strategy includes a governance review. This is a particularly demanding project. The last time we ran a review of this kind, it was challenging – not just technically, but emotionally too. It’s a subject that requires real sensitivity and authority to handle well. We knew we needed someone with both governance experience and the ability to understand the nuances of working within a membership and regulatory body like ours.
Viki CalaisUK Council for Psychotherapy
This was a highly specialist brief. Governance in the context of a charity, professional association and regulatory body is a rare mix. Glen Manners from Charity People brought their experience and market insight to the table, helping UKCP sharpen the specification and position the opportunity in the right way.
“Glen did his homework. We were very aware that this wasn’t a straightforward hire – the role had a broad remit and was completely new to the organisation. Glen helped us take a step back and think critically about what we were really looking for. He gave us honest, constructive feedback on the scope and shape of the brief, and we were able to adjust the specification and pitch it at a more realistic and appealing level as a result.”
– Viki Calais, UK Council for Psychotherapy
From early conversations through to the final shortlist, the partnership was defined by trust, transparency and responsiveness. Daily contact meant decisions could be made quickly and the process remained collaborative.
“It really felt like a two-way relationship. Glen was always available – he was in touch most days to ask questions, answer ours, or just keep things moving. He also became a valuable bridge between us and the candidates, creating space for open and honest conversations. I felt confident that both sides were being well looked after.”
– Viki Calais, UK Council for Psychotherapy
The final shortlist reflected the specialist nature of the role. Each candidate brought experience in governance within professional bodies or similarly regulated spaces – and crucially, demonstrated an understanding of the values and ambitions driving UKCP’s work.
”We were pleased with the calibre of candidates. They’d clearly taken time to understand the organisation, and their applications reflected that. The governance experience was there – but more importantly, so was the fit. It made shortlisting an encouraging and constructive experience.
Viki CalaisUK Council for Psychotherapy
Emma Herbert was appointed to the newly created Head of Governance role – bringing the combination of technical experience and values alignment that UKCP had been seeking.
Looking ahead, Emma joins a committed and future-focused team working to deliver the organisation’s strategy over the next three years. That strategy is rooted in quality, support for members, financial resilience and advocacy for psychotherapy’s vital role in society.
“This role is going to be key to helping us move forward confidently with our strategy. We’re proud of the team we’ve built and their commitment to public interest and the organisation’s aims. We’re excited to have someone new coming in with the skills and insight to help take us to the next level.”
– Viki Calais, UK Council for Psychotherapy
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