​

HKA is pleased to share the exciting news that Michael Tonkin has been elected as Vice President of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (Ciarb) for 2025. He will become Deputy President in 2026 and President in 2027, marking a significant milestone in his already distinguished career in alternative dispute resolution (ADR). 

Michael has supported the Ciarb for many years, assuming numerous roles at branch level including as Chair, then serving as a Trustee for 4 years which included being the Honorary Treasurer and Chair of the Audit Committee. After stepping down as a Trustee at the end of his term, he was invited to be part of the Governance Review Working Party where he made various recommendations for implementation, and he is currently co-leading a global initiative for the Ciarb focused on “Maximising the Effectiveness of Party-Appointed Expert Witness Evidence in ADR.” 

We are confident that his vision and leadership will further advance the institute’s commitment to ADR excellence. Reflecting on his election, Michael said: 

“It is a profound honour and privilege to have been elected as Vice-President 2025, Deputy President 2026 and President 2027 of the Ciarb. Having been a member of Ciarb for over two decades, I have witnessed the organisation’s remarkable growth and global impact, and I am firmly committed to building on this legacy and supporting the continued advancement of Ciarb’s stated aims. 

My presidential candidacy was grounded in a commitment to advancing all forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) across jurisdictions, promoting meaningful collaboration among members through training, events, and networking, and dedicating my time to actively engaging with and supporting all Ciarb Branches. 

I look forward to working closely with our current President, Professor Dr Mohamed Abdel-Wahab C.Arb FCIArb, and incoming President Cesar Pereira C.Arb FCIArb, to further strengthen Ciarb’s global presence and influence. Thank you to the membership for your trust and confidence in me. I am fully dedicated to serving Ciarb and its Branches throughout my Presidency and beyond.” 

HKA proudly celebrates this incredible achievement, especially as Michael, a Chartered Quantity Surveyor, is the first non-lawyer to be appointed as President in more than 15 years. 

Amanda Clack, Partner and Regional CEO, International said, “All of us at HKA are incredibly excited and very proud that Michael Tonkin, one of our leading experts, is taking on the role as President of Ciarb in 2027. It is a testament to Michael that he has been elected for this prestigious role. He has our full support and congratulations.”

This appointment recognises Michael Tonkin’s extraordinary leadership, expertise and dedication to advancing ADR worldwide. It underscores the respect and confidence placed in him by the Ciarb membership and reflects the significant contributions he has made in the field of international ADR. 

“I have worked with Michael for 15 years and his election as Vice President of Ciarb in 2025 is a testament to his exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and deep commitment to the advancement of ADR. We at HKA are incredibly proud to see his contributions recognised on a global stage. Congratulations Michael, this is a truly well-deserved honour,” said Haroon Niazi, Partner and Construction, Claims and Expert Services Lead.

For more information about HKA, visit hka.com and connect with us on LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter, @HKAGlobal) and Facebook.​ 

Media contact 

Name	​​Jude Wilson-Brown​
Title	​​Marketing and Communications Director, Middle East and Africa​
Number	+971 56 526 7370
Email	​​judewilsonbrown@hka.com​