Plaid Cymru has appointed a new Chief Executive following "a competitive and comprehensive recruitment process."
Carl Harris has worked for Plaid Cymru for more than a decade— initially in the Dwyrain Caerfyrddin a Dinefwr Constituency office, and more recently as Plaid Cymru’s Head of Strategy.
Six candidates were considered for the post who underwent "psychometric tests, a written exercise, discussion sessions with a panel drawn from some of the party’s affiliated Sections, followed by a final interview and presentation conducted by the party Chair, Westminster Group Leader, Senedd Deputy Leader, Director of Organisation, and the Chair of the Personnel Committee."
In welcoming Mr Harris to the role, Party Chair Alun Ffred Jones said: “Following a rigorous and competitive recruitment process, it is a pleasure to welcome Carl Harris to the role of Chief Executive.
"Carl has already served the party tirelessly for a decade and more, and his experience of working within a constituency and nationally will be an asset to Plaid as he takes on his new duties.
"With an exciting period of renewal and growth ahead we know that Plaid is in safe hands.
We are also deeply indebted to Marc Phillips for his work over the past eight months as interim Chief Executive.”
Mr Harris is a former Deputy President of the National Union of Students Wales and served as Vice Chair of Cymru X, Plaid Cymru’s former Youth Section.
In 2017 he was elected to represent Saron Ward on Cyngor Sir Gâr— having gained a seat held by Labour for 13 years.
Responding to his appointment, Carl Harris said: “I’ve been fortunate to work within the Plaid Cymru family for a number of years, and it is with a sense of tremendous honour and humility that I take up the role as our party’s Chief Executive.
"The strength of our party is our grassroots members and the tireless efforts of our volunteers and staff.
"I see my role as one of empowerment and support: to nurture the relationship between the central office and our branch and constituency network, and to build the party to a position where we are more able to invest in our membership and campaigns across the country.
"I look forward to working with the membership to help play my part in building a renewed and resurgent Plaid Cymru.”
Mr Harris will formally begin his new role on August 1st.