Sarah Atkinson will leave the Charity Commission to join the Social Mobility Foundation (SMF) as chief executive.
She has been at the regulator since 2014 and is executive director for strategy, policy and communications. She was recently involved with the Charity Tax Commission and has held board roles at Endometriosis UK, the Professional Association of Childcare and Early Years, and Womankind Worldwide.
Atkinson will succeed David Johnston, who announced his plans to stand down after ten years at the helm of SMF, which aims to make a practical improvement in social mobility for young people from low-income backgrounds.
‘Personal commitment’
Atkinson said she was delighted to be joining the charity on 2 January 2020 and that she has a personal commitment to the cause.
She said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have been chosen as the next chief executive of the Social Mobility Foundation. I firmly believe that now, more than ever, working to support young people to realise their potential is critical to build the economy and society the UK needs to be.
“I am personally deeply committed to the SMF’s mission and I have been so excited and inspired by what David and the team have achieved.”
Alan Milburn, chair of SMF, added: “Like her predecessor David Johnston, I am sure she will be an outstanding leader of the organisation. Sarah brings with her a wealth of experience in the charity world and a deep passion for social mobility.
“Her skills will be essential in helping SMF grow and develop as we seek to break down the barriers that stand in the way of so many young people in our country realising their aspirations.”
‘Welcome to the other side’
Atkinson announced the news on Twitter yesterday afternoon, prompting many charity leaders to congratulate her on the appointment.
Super excited that the amazingly talented @SarahHatstand is joining our sector! Welcome you brilliant person! We’re all on your side and willing you to succeed! @DSC_Charity @JKENNEDYDSC https://t.co/AmGymDSD7P
— Debra Allcock Tyler (@DebAllcockTyler) October 31, 2019
Congratulations @SarahHatstand and @SocialMobilityF on this excellent appointment. https://t.co/JgCwPwsTxp
— Saleh Saeed (@salehsaeed) November 1, 2019
This is SUCH good news - looking forward v much to welcoming @SarahHatstand to this side of the fence, knowing that she will bring a wealth of talent, understanding experience to an important role. Sad for @ChtyCommission though - big shoes to fill. https://t.co/bql78Ggyid
— Jane Ide (@Jane_NAVCA) October 31, 2019
Wow great news, congratulations Sarah, a loss for @ChtyCommission but delighted to welcome you to the world of charity CEO’s https://t.co/GPE3PX392j
— Julie Bentley (@juliebentley) October 31, 2019
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