ALP Chief Executive appointed to Fair Work Agency Advisory Board
The Government has announced the appointment of the inaugural Advisory Board for the Fair Work Agency (FWA), ahead of its launch on 7 April 2026. The new body will bring together key labour market enforcement functions into a single organisation, marking a significant development in the UK’s approach to worker protection and compliance.
As part of these appointments, Joanne Young, Chief Executive of the Association of Labour Providers (ALP), has been named as one of three employer representatives on the Advisory Board.
The creation of the Fair Work Agency will consolidate the responsibilities of the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA), the Employment Agency Standards Inspectorate (EAS) and HMRC’s National Minimum Wage enforcement team into one body, with additional powers to strengthen enforcement across the labour market.
The Advisory Board will provide strategic advice to ministers and support the leadership of the FWA in shaping its priorities and approach. It brings together representatives from employers, trade unions and independent experts, reflecting a tripartite model intended to balance perspectives across the labour market.
Advisory Board members
The Advisory Board comprises nine members:
Independent members
- Patricia Findlay
- Gavin Kelly
- Dora-Olivia Vicol
Employer representatives
- Neil Carberry
- Mustafa Faruqi
- Joanne Young
Trade union representatives
- Mike Clancy
- Diana Holland
- Dave Ward
ALP comment
Commenting on the appointment, Joanne Young said the formation of the Fair Work Agency represents “an important moment for labour market enforcement in the UK” and a “significant opportunity to strengthen and modernise the system”.
She confirmed that she will continue in her role as ALP Chief Executive, noting that the two positions are complementary. The appointment will ensure that the voice of responsible labour providers is represented at a national level, while also enabling insight from the Advisory Board to inform ALP’s work in supporting members.
Joanne also highlighted the importance of maintaining a level playing field across the labour market, where compliant businesses are able to operate sustainably and poor practice is effectively addressed.
The establishment of the FWA is expected to lead to a more coordinated and consistent approach to enforcement. While it does not in itself introduce new legal obligations, it signals a shift towards a more joined-up and potentially more proactive enforcement regime.
ALP will continue to engage with members and government as the Fair Work Agency develops, ensuring that the practical realities of labour provision are reflected in future enforcement policy and activity. Members are encouraged to share their experiences, challenges and evidence to help inform this work.