Chair appointed to new Fair Work Agency

Matthew Taylor has been appointed as the first chair of the new Fair Work Agency, a new body that will enforce protections for workers as part of employment rights reforms.

The Fair Work Agency will launch in April 2026 and bring together three existing enforcement bodies to create a single agency, and give workers and employers greater clarity on where to access support.

Matthew Taylor’s appointment to lead the new agency follows his role in leading the Taylor Review of Modern Working Practices in 2016, which provided the foundation for many of the transformative reforms now being delivered through the Employment Rights Bill that the Fair Work Agency will enforce.

Since 2021 he has also served as Chief Executive of both the NHS Confederation, following a stint at the RSA and an interim period as Director of Labour Market Enforcement.

Business Secretary Peter Kyle said:

“The current enforcement system doesn’t deliver for businesses or working people. Our Fair Work Agency will be a game-changer in ensuring rights are properly enforced, whilst backing those businesses that already do the right thing.”

Employment Rights Minister Kate Dearden said: 

“Matthew Taylor’s extensive experience will be vital in ensuring this new agency delivers real change for people who’ve been let down by poor employment practices for far too long.“

New Fair Work Agency Chair Matthew Taylor CBE said: 

“For years inside and outside Government I argued that employers and workers need a single enforcement body for employment rights.  

“It is an honour to be asked to be the first Chair of the Fair Work Agency, the body that will meet that need.  

“The Agency has a vital job in strengthening labour market compliance and enforcement. This is essential to provide workers with protection and employers with a supportive and level playing field on which to invest and grow.“