Fran Gillon to retire as CEO of IPReg

After more than 8 years as CEO of IPReg, Fran Gillon will be retiring at the end of March 2026. 

Departing Chair of IPReg Lord Chris Smith said: “During her time as Chief Executive Fran has helped to transform IPReg into a modern highly respected regulator.  She has established greatly improved relationships with all our key stakeholders; she has led the review of all of our rules and regulations, to make them fit for purpose; she has initiated the review now beginning of educational routes into the IP attorney profession; and she has led the organisation brilliantly through a period of major change.  IPReg will miss her firm hand on the tiller.  But I wish her the very best for a very happy retirement.”

Incoming Chair, Bill Matthews said: “Whilst I had hoped to work with Fran for much longer, I greatly appreciate the early confirmation of her retirement plans and look forward to her guidance and support over the next six months. She will be a hard act to follow.”

A recruitment process will begin soon to appoint Fran’s successor.