Brereton is currently executive in residence at Michigan State University’s Eli Broad College of Business, where he is also co-academic director for the MS in Marketing Research. He was president and chief executive at Maritz between 2003 and 2014.

He will help steer ICN’s strategic programming, with the aim of strengthening its links between academia and professional practice.

Based in the US, the ICN was formed in 2022 by a group of volunteers to share community resources, research and best practice for job seekers.

ICN board directors participate in executing the organisation’s mission to offer peer support, career and training resources and networking opportunities.

Simon Chadwick, chair of the ICN board, said: “Michael has spent his career not just leading organisations, but actively shaping the standards and education of our profession. His willingness to roll up his sleeves and contribute his expertise to our volunteer initiatives will be transformative for our members.”