Chris Last has been appointed director general of HR at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP); the news comes on the back of a threat of industrial action.

Last replaces Kevin White who moves to director general of HR at the Home Office. Currently the director of HR for Ford of Europe and the Premier Automotive Group, Last will take up the post on 2 January 2008.

Commenting on his appointment, the DWP permanent secretary, Leigh Lewis, said: “Chris is taking on the crucial role of leading the DWP’s HR strategy during a period of significant challenge and transition for the department. He is a highly skilled HR professional who will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to DWP. I very much look forward to working with him.”

Last, who is said to be “looking forward to the challenges and opportunities which lie ahead”, joins at a time of unrest.

Members of the Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) working for the DWP in Jobcentres, the Pension service and Child Support Agency (CSA) have voted strongly for strike action in a dispute over a recent pay offer. The union claims the planned pay deal would see approximately 40 per cent of staff receive a 0 per cent pay increase next year.

Sixty-two per cent of those voting in the ballot backed strike action over the possible imposition of a three-year pay offer, which, according to the PCS, equates to a pay offer averaging just 1 per cent a year over the three years.

Mark Serwotka, PCS general secretary, said: “It is completely unacceptable that the department should seek to impose pay cuts in real terms on hardworking staff who have borne the brunt of massive job cuts. The anger of staff is illustrated by this strong vote in favour of strike action over an offer that will see the lowest paid receive only 24 pence above the minimum wage if it is imposed. We urge the department to step back from provoking industrial action and re-enter talks on a pay deal that recognises the important role staff play in delivering essential public services.”