The Institute of Fundraising has extended the tenure of its chair, Mark Astarita, for another year.

The British Red Cross director of fundraising was appointed to the position last May and was due to stay in post for one year while the Institute made changes to its governance structure. However the organisation’s board agreed at its last meeting to keep him on for another year.

Vice-chair Gill Raikes praised Astarita’s “flair” and work ethic.

Astarita welcomed the extension of his role. “As someone who is passionate about the profession of fundraising I am absolutely delighted to have been asked to chair the Institute for another year,” he said.

“Continuing economic troubles mean fundraisers are under pressure as never before and I am determined to play my part in fighting for the recognition of value that fundraisers bring.”

Astarita took up the post following the departure of Paul Amadi, now director of fundraising at Diabetes UK.