New Chief Exec at Charity Commission

Sam Younger CBE has been appointed as the new chief executive of the Charity Commission and will replace Andrew Hind at the helm of the independent charity regulator from 1 September 2010.

Mr Younger was the founding Chair of the Electoral Commission, Director General of the British Red Cross, and Managing Director of the BBC World Service.

He also served as interim Chief Executive of the housing charity, Shelter, during 2009 and this year is undertaking interim assignments with the educational charity Bell Educational Trust and with the Electoral Reform Society.

Dame Suzi Leather, Chair of the Charity Commission, said:

"I am delighted to announce Sam’s appointment and very much look forward to working with him.

"Sam has an impressive track record of effective leadership in regulation, in public policy and in charity. His career demonstrates his deep commitment both to the voluntary sector and to public service. At a time of challenge for the Commission, he brings considerable experience of managing change while remaining focused on delivery. His experience of regulation and his political acumen are very significant strengths.

"Sam will succeed Andrew Hind, under whose wise and committed leadership the Commission has become more agile, more relevant and above all more effective. The Board and I are deeply grateful to Andrew for all that he has achieved at the Commission."

Sam Younger, Chief Executive designate of the Charity Commission, said:

"I am excited to be joining the Commission at an undoubtedly challenging time, but also a stimulating one which creates opportunities as well as pressures for charities and for the Commission itself. Some of my previous roles have given me an affinity with the voluntary sector.

"I look forward to building on that connection and on my experience of regulation as I work with Suzi and the rest of the team to strengthen further the Commission's vital contribution to public confidence in charities."

Mr Younger is on a three year contract on a salary of £130,000 pa.