HR Independents (HRi), the UK body for independent HR and people professionals, has today announced Mary Asante as its Chief Executive to lead the organisation as it grows.

Mary has been one of the driving forces behind HRi and has served as Director of HRi since its inception, almost three years ago. Mary is HRi’s first Chief Executive, which comes as part of a significant change in the leadership and management of HRi.

Katy McMinn, co-founder, who was pivotal in establishing and setting up HRi has made the decision to step down as a director, whilst remaining as a shareholder. Katy will continue to be an ambassador of HRi and is also a platinum member of HRi and will continue to be so. Whilst Katy will not be involved in the day-to-day operational running of the business going forwards, she remains excited about the future for HRi and will continue to support in any way she can.

It is with great sadness that we bid farewell to Ruth Cornish, one of our co-founders, who was passionate and pivotal in establishing and launching HRi. Ruth always referred to HRi as the twinkle in her eye and we are hoping we can do Ruth proud by continuing the great work the co-founders started, building on those foundations and taking the organisation to greater heights. Ruth has taken the decision to focus on her primary business, Amelore, and will remain as a platinum member of HRi, Ruth will also continue to be an ambassador of HRi. We thank her for her commitment and contribution and wish her well.

After much thought and consideration, Nikki Masterman has also decided to step away as a Director of HRi to focus on her own business of Inspired HR. This was not an easy decision for Nikki to make and she has thoroughly enjoyed her time supporting the organisation, the members, and the wider network. It has been a pleasure to get to know Nikki and we thank her for her contribution during her time with us. We wish Nikki well.

Charlotte Allfrey, a founding member who joined HRi as Director in 2022 will continue to work alongside Mary as Director of Operations to deliver and enhance the benefits HRi offers to its members and community.

Charlotte said: “I am passionate about supporting the independent sector, I’m impressed by the work already done and the spirit of acting as the voice for and its focus on the independent community. I’m delighted to continue to work closely with Mary to drive HRi forward providing the independent community with a voice and support.”

Mary Asante said: “I’m excited to be leading HRi and delighted to be working with Charlotte to take HRi forward by the way we deliver member benefits and support to the wider community, acting as the voice and body for independent HR and people professionals whilst upholding standards.”