Stewardship has appointed its director of philanthropy Mike O’Neill as its new chief executive, replacing David Jones, who led the charity for a decade.

O’Neill (pictured), who will take up the role in July, joined Stewardship in January 2009. Prior to this he was on the senior staff of Redeemer Church in New York City and served as the executive director of Hope for New York for seven years.

Jones will take on an ambassadorial role with Stewardship.

David Vardy, chairman of the Stewardship board of trustees, said: “David Jones has done a superb job in his ten years as chief executive and his 19 years, in total, at Stewardship.  The charity has seen amazing growth and, through his vision and enthusiasm, has become one of the largest Christian charities in the UK.  Under David’s leadership, generosity and releasing resources for the extension of God’s Kingdom has been greatly enhanced.  It is a credit to him that Stewardship is responsible for almost £50m per annum in giving.

"We wish David well as he follows God’s calling to a new role in a new area of ministry and are delighted his connection with Stewardship will not be lost.  It is a great commendation to David that he had already identified a possible successor in Mike O’Neill and brought him into Stewardship 15 months ago.  We are delighted Mike is taking over to lead the charity in the next phase of its growth and development.”