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A REC spokesman admitted Mr Osborne had no previous experience in recruitment and said its new chief would have to be brought "quickly up to speed" on the issues of the day for agencies.
Despite his lack of agency experience, Mr Osborne has a strong presence on the international small business scene, having been owner-manager of a series of international businesses.
He also sits on the Small Business Council - a panel of specialist independent advisors to the DTI Secretary of State, Patricia Hewitt.
Mr Osborne said: "I understand how important it is for REC membership to be well represented in Government, at home and in Europe; to be well informed on changing legislation and to receive the support needed from a truly relevant professional association. I feel I can combine the strength of character needed to positively influence decision-makers with a fair and rational understanding of the legislative processes."
Since leaving the Royal Air Force in 1981, where he served as an operational pilot and air movements officer, Mr Osborne (50) has been the owner manager of a series of award-winning small businesses.
He has managed companies in the United States and Middle East as well as the UK, spanning the construction, fire protection, environmental energy systems, aviation and veterinary support service sectors. He was also Senior Partner of the PR Group, a marketing agency, for over seven years, during which time he served as a Director on the Board of a County Chamber of Commerce, a Training and Enterprise Council and Business Link.
Mr Osborne will replace REC's current Chief Executive, Tim Nicholson, on 1 January 2003.
Mr Nicholson, worked at the forefront REC's campaigns against legislation that stood to harm agencies' and freelancers' businesses, including the Employment Agencies Act and Agency Workers' Directive.
Mr Nicholson recently admitted REC members faced a rise in fees next year as membership moves towards a turnover-related payment scheme.
The Confederation's annual accounts showed it made a loss of £94,209 at the end of 2001.
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Richard Powell, © Shout99.com 2002
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