Bectu has announced the appointment of Noel McClean as its new head, replacing Philippa Childs, who is retiring.
McClean returns to Bectu, the creative industries sector of Prospect union, having held the position of deputy general secretary of Prospect in the aviation, heritage and IT&T sectors. He previously spent 13 years at Bectu, latterly as its national secretary looking after theatres, live events and broadcasters. Prior to joining Bectu, he held various positions at CWU.
Childs is retiring in January, following eight years in the position, when McClean will formally take over.
Commenting on the appointment, McClean said, “It was already the honour of my life being national secretary in Bectu and then deputy general secretary in another sector of Prospect but being chosen to replace Philippa trumps that easily. Philippa has guided Bectu through eight tricky years which included Covid and the US film and TV slowdown, delivering for members at every turn. The work is never done though, and in the face of continuing problems like BBC cuts, competition from streamers, consolidation, AI and global economic headwinds our members need the support of their union more than ever.
“It has taught me so much working with Philippa and I look forward to putting that into practice in the coming years.”
Childs said, “I have had the pleasure of working with Noel throughout my time as head of Bectu and have seen his hard work, tenacity, and thoughtfulness at first hand. He understands the challenges workers are facing across the creative industries and will work tirelessly on their behalf. I couldn’t be leaving Bectu in safer hands and I feel confident that under his leadership the union will continue to grow, both in membership terms but also in influence.”
Mike Clancy, general secretary of prospect, added, “Throughout his time at Prospect/Bectu Noel has shown a total dedication to furthering the interests of our members, and demonstrated the understanding, empathy and steel needed to be a good negotiator. Philippa will be hard to replace but if anyone can do the job justice it’s Noel.”
