Noel McClean to head UK trade body Bectu when Philippa Childs retires

Noel McClean and Philippa Childs

UK creative industries trade body Bectu, part of the Prospect union, has appointed Noel McClean as its new head to replace Philippa Childs when she retires in January.

McClean is currently deputy general secretary of Prospect in the aviation, heritage and IT&T sectors. Prior to that he worked at Bectu for 13 years, latterly as national secretary looking after theatres, live events and broadcasters including the BBC.

Childs, who announced her retirement last summer, will step down in January after eight years in the role. She 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.”

McClean said: “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.”

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.”