The National Family Mediation (NFM) charity has promoted its operations manager Sarah Hawkins as it next chief executive.

She replaces Jane Robey, who is retiring after 20 years leading the charity.

Hawkins, who joined the Exeter based charity in 2019, said: “I am extremely honoured to be appointed as the new chief executive of NFM. For the last four years I have witnessed the incredible results that can be achieved through mediation for families in conflict.

“I would like to thank Jane for her leadership over the years, during which time she has worked tirelessly to keep mediation on the political agenda and to raise awareness of the benefits of alternative dispute resolution methods amongst the public.

“Her efforts have ultimately contributed to the current position of the sector, and has no doubt influenced the government’s decision to extend the voucher scheme and to make mediation a pre-court requirement in low level family dispute cases.”

She added: “I am now looking forward to taking the charity forward, and to continuing to deliver on our ambitions to make mediation as accessible as possible to everyone who needs it.”

Exciting news! Sarah Hawkins is our new CEO, taking over from Jane Robey who has retired after almost 20 years. We say a big thank you to Jane for her exceptional leadership during that time and a huge congratulations to Sarah! https://t.co/D9mUZ4mtQG#FamilyMediation

— National Family Mediation (@NatFamMediation) April 3, 2023

The charity deals with an average of 700 case referrals a month and 3,000 telephone calls.

NFM chair Carol Reay added: “We are extremely lucky to have Sarah in the driving seat for NFM. Sarah was appointed after a rigorous competitive recruitment process.

“She brings an unbeatable combination of passion for mediation, vision for the future and a proven track record at getting things done. I am looking forward to working with Sarah and taking NFM forward.”

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