Dr Karl Mackie CBE, one of the world’s foremost pioneers of commercial mediation and an influential figure in the development of alternative dispute resolution has died, the Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR) has announced.  

Mackie founded the CEDR in 1990 alongside Eileen Carroll KC (Hon) at a time when mediation was little understood within the British legal system. Together they transformed what was then an emerging idea into a respected profession and built CEDR into one of the world’s leading dispute resolution organisations. Their vision has influenced courts, governments, businesses and mediators across every continent. 

John Munton, CEDR managing director, said: 'Karl was one of those rare people who helped define an entire profession. His vision, courage and determination transformed mediation from an unfamiliar concept into a mainstream means of resolving conflict that has benefited countless individuals, organisations and communities around the world. He and Eileen were there at the very beginning — championing mediation across the profession from the early 1990s, and Karl led the organisation for many years as it grew from two members of staff working out of a borrowed room at Eileen’s law firm to an internationally recognised voice for mediation. Our thoughts are with Eileen, their family, and all those who are close to Karl at this time.'

Susanne Schuler, global director of development at CEDR, said: 'Karl’s influence reached every corner of the international mediation community. Wherever CEDR works today, we continue to encounter mediators, judges, lawyers and policymakers whose careers were shaped by his teaching, his writing or his personal encouragement.

'He believed passionately that mediation could improve not only legal systems but relationships, organisations and society itself. His commitment to excellence was matched by his kindness and his willingness to invest time in key worthwhile causes.'

Before joining CEDR Mackie had been an academic, business psychologist and barrister. His numerous appointments included vice-chair of the Civil Mediation Council, chief adjudicator of Ofsted’s Independent Complaints Adjudication Service and advisory roles with universities and international organisations. The Times newspaper famously dubbed him ’Mr Mediation’.