By Jonathan Davies
Katja Hall is to step down as deputy-director general of business lobby group, the CBI, after nine years with the organisation.
Ms Hall was promoted to deputy-director general in May 2014 after leading the CBI's policy department. The organisation recognised her contribution in policy development and lobbying work during this year's general election.
Ms Hall, who will leave in October, has led the CBI’s policy, international and governance teams and represented CBI members’ interests both nationally and internationally to governments around the world on issues such as financial services, infrastructure, education and exports. She championed the CBI’s campaign to stay in a reformed EU and launched the Great Business Debate, a campaign to improve the public’s confidence in business.
Katja Hall said: “I have been immensely proud to have led the CBI’s lobbying and policy work as Deputy Director-General.
"I will miss my wonderful colleagues but after 9 years with the CBI, this is the right time for me to take the next step in my career.
"I will be taking some time off to decide on my next move and I hope to make an announcement in the near future.
"I want to thank John [Cridland, current director-general] and the CBI team for all their support over the years and to wish Carolyn Fairbairn all the best when she takes over the reins as Director-General later this year."
Paul Drechsler, CBI President, added: “Katja is a phenomenal champion for British business and has truly made her mark on the organisation and with members.
“She has led a string of important campaigns spanning Britain’s role in the EU, boosting medium-sized businesses, infrastructure, skills and education, improving gender diversity on UK boards, modernising strike laws and reforming public sector pensions.”
The announcement means that one of incoming director-general Carolyn Fairbairn's first jobs will be to find a new deputy.
Earlier this year, John Cridland announced that he was leaving the CBI after more than 30 years of service, five of which were spent as director general.
