Penman gained the position after winning the nomination of the union’s executive committee. No members decided to stand against him in an election.
Speaking to CSW about his priorities, Penman said that “whilst the pensions dispute may be coming to an end, ministers may think that’s resolved, the whole issue of total reward for our members, their career development and the pay that they get – especially in relation to the private sector – remains an issue that is unresolved.”
He added that “we see comments from Lord Browne about the pay freeze restricting the ability of the civil service to retain the most talented staff. The government’s hiding behind a cloak of austerity, and that’s going to be at the forefront of the first few years of my leadership.”
Penman also said he took “immense pride” in winning the role, having worked for the union for 12 years. Previously he was a civil servant in the Department for Work and Pensions, and a PCS official.
He will take over from Jonathan Baume, who formally steps down in the autumn.