Margaret McKinlay, former acting CEO at the Immigration Advisory Service, has been selected as the preferred candidate to take over as chair of the Gangmasters Licensing Authority (GLA).

McKinlay was identified following a rigorous selection process, validated by the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments.

Farming minister Jim Paice has invited the environment, food and rural affairs committee to hold a pre-appointment hearing and to report on McKinlay’s suitability for the post.

The process is in line with the government’s commitment to strengthen the role of parliament in scrutinising major public appointments.

McKinlay currently holds senior positions at several charitable organisations, including chair of the Disabled Living Foundation and Governor of Westminster Kingsway College.

Last year, she was managing director, promoted to acting CEO, at the Immigration Advisory Service.