Ciarb appoints Don MacIntyre as permanent Chief Executive

Ciarb is pleased to announce the appointment of Don MacIntyre as permanent Chief Executive, effective immediately, following a successful 12-month interim period.

Don has led Ciarb through a period of stabilisation and strategic refocus, strengthening its operational and financial position while reinforcing its global mission to promote high standards in dispute resolution. His appointment reflects both the progress achieved over the past year and confidence in his vision for Ciarb. 

Don said: “It is a privilege to be appointed as permanent Chief Executive at such an important time for the global dispute resolution community. As economies become more interconnected and disputes increasingly complex, the role of trusted, high-quality dispute resolution has never been more critical. 

Over the past year, we have strengthened our foundations and refocused on delivering value to our global membership. Looking ahead, my priority is to build on this momentum, enhancing professional standards, expanding access to education and qualifications, and ensuring Ciarb continues to lead and shape the future of dispute resolution worldwide.” 

Don brings significant experience leading professional and chartered bodies through governance reform and strategic transformation. As CEO of the Personal Finance Society, part of the Chartered Insurance Institute, he led a major governance overhaul and operational turnaround, while at the UK Cyber Security Council he secured chartered status and established the organisation as the recognised self-regulatory body for the profession. Within just 90 days, he secured charitable status and, through close collaboration with the Privy Council, achieved chartered status within its first year. 

Don has worked closely with key UK government departments, including HM Treasury, the Cabinet Office, and the-then Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, supporting consultations on long-term legislation for the cyber security profession. 

He has also held senior roles internationally. As Global Business Development Director at IPPF, he led a high-performing team across six global offices and secured over £320 million in international development programmes. In addition, as Commercial Director at OPM (Consultancy), Don successfully implemented a strategic business development plan that led to the creation of a new team and a £1.8 million increase in turnover in under six months. 

Known for his collaborative approach, strong communication skills, and strategic insight, Don has consistently demonstrated his ability to build effective teams and deliver meaningful, lasting change. 

Ben Giaretta C.Arb FCIArb, Chair of the Ciarb Board of Trustees, said: “The Trustees are very pleased that Don has accepted the offer to become the permanent Chief Executive. Don has been impressive as interim Chief Executive over the past year, and we are confident that he will be an excellent leader over the coming years. 

Ciarb is in a strong position, with record member numbers, and there are exciting plans to grow its education and membership offerings. The appointment of Don as permanent Chief Executive is an important part of our putting in place the right structure to support that growth.”