The General Council of the Bar (Bar Council) has announced a successor to current chief executive Malcolm Cree CBE, who is retiring after eight years at the head of the organisation. Jim Morris CB DSO will join the Bar Council on 23 March 2026.
Morris joins from retail communications technology company VoCoVo after a career in the Royal Marines, where he led military organisations at every level, including the UK’s Standing Joint Force Headquarters. He served as the military assistant to two defence secretaries and as the first military assistant to the prime minister since World War II.
For his leadership in Afghanistan, Morris was appointed as a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order in 2009. He was subsequently appointed as a Companion of the Order of the Bath in 2023.
As chief executive, he will be responsible for leading the senior management team to deliver the Bar Council’s overall strategy and oversee day-to-day operations.
“I am delighted to be appointed chief executive of the General Council of the Bar,” Morris said.
“At a time of significant potential change and challenge for the legal profession, the work of the Bar has never been more vital.
“I look forward to working closely with the chair, the officers and committee members of the Bar Council, and colleagues across the profession as together, we shape the future of a strong and independent Bar.”
Commenting on the appointment, chair of the Bar Council Barbara Mills KC said:
“We are delighted to welcome Jim Morris as the new chief executive of the General Council of the Bar. His depth of experience and strong leadership record make him uniquely positioned to guide us into our next chapter.
“The Bar Council and our members look forward to working closely with Jim to deliver on our mission and strengthen our impact. This appointment marks an exciting moment for our members, our partners, and the communities we serve.
“I also want to pay tribute to Malcolm Cree. Malcolm has done a fantastic job in leading the Bar Council over the past 8 years, strengthening our voice as the representative body for barristers and modernising the way the small but busy staff team performs. On behalf of the Bar, I thank Malcolm for his excellent service to our profession and wish him all the very best in his retirement.”
Law Society of England and Wales CEO Ian Jeffery added:
“We welcome the appointment of Jim Morris CB DSO as the Bar Council’s next chief executive. We look forward to working with him on areas of common interest including ensuring the justice system can thrive as a crucial public service and protecting the rule of law.”
