New directors appointed to Civil Service Learning

Crystal Akass and Jo Rodrigues are appointed Civil Service Learning (CSL) directors to lead learning and development in the Civil Service.

Crystal Akass joins as Director of Leadership, Capability and Learning. Jo Rodrigues takes on responsibility for CSL operations as part of her role as Chief Operating Officer of Civil Service Human Resources (HR). Both will report to Rupert McNeil, Chief People Officer for the Civil Service.

Crystal is leading on developing and implementing a new leadership academy. She is responsible for the overall learning and capability strategy for the Civil Service. Crystal has previously held roles as HR Director for the Cabinet Office and Department for Work and Pensions, and HR roles in the Ministry of Justice and UK Border Agency.

Jo leads on providing CSL services. This is part of a move to bring responsibility for the operational work of Civil Service HR into one place, under the Chief Operating Officer. Jo has previously held senior HR roles in the Cabinet Office, Department for Work and Pensions and the Ministry of Justice.

Crystal and Jo will work to provide new leadership for CSL in maintaining top quality, cost effective learning and development for all civil servants.

They replace the previous Director of Civil Service Learning, Hilary Spencer who is now Director of the Government Equalities Office.