By Unions 21 | 2 min
Unions 21 has made two new senior appointments to its Board, as we continue to develop our insight and support for the trade union movement.
Rob Yeldham, Director of Strategy, Policy and Engagement at the CSP, has been elected as one of our Vice Chairs, while Rachel Curley, Director of Member Relations at the BMA, becomes a member of the Board.
Rachel and Rob bring decades of trade union experience to Unions 21, which will help strengthen our focus and strategic direction as we strive to build tomorrow’s unions.
Rob says: “It is a privilege to be elected as one of the Vice-Chairs. Thanks to Martin [Furlong] for all his work for the organisation.
“I am a big advocate for Unions 21 as a safe space for unions to share, learn and develop joint advocacy for our members. I am committed to making sure we continue to fulfil these vital roles and bring more unions into the discussion.”
Rachel adds: “I am delighted to be joining the Board. I'm looking forward to working with, and learning from, colleagues across different trade unions and to contributing to the strategic governance of Unions 21.”
About Rob and Rachel
Rob Yeldham has worked in senior PR and communications roles for around 30 years. He joined the CSP in 2013, initially as Director of Marketing and Communications before becoming Director of Strategy, Policy and Engagement in 2015.
Rachel has over 25 years’ experience in several UK trade unions, including roles as a spokesperson, caseworker, advocate and negotiator. She was Assistant General Secretary at the NEU between 2018 and 2021, then NEU Deputy General Secretary from 2021 to 2024. Rachel was then Deputy General Secretary at Prospect before joining the BMA in February 2026, as Director of Member Relations.
