Debt charity StepChange has recruited Mike O'Connor as its new chief executive, replacing Gordon Bell, who helped the organisation significantly grow in his 14 years in the role.

O’Connor (pictured), currently chief executive of Consumer Futures, a statutory body which helps consumers get a fair deal, will join StepChange in the same position in January.

O’Connor said of the move: “I am honoured and excited to be joining an organisation which is doing such excellent work in tackling problem debt which causes so much damage to individuals, families and society.”    

His previous roles include chief executive of the Olympic Lottery Distributor and chief executive of the Millennium Commission.  In those two roles he was responsible for distributing more than £4bn. In 2000, O’Connor received a CBE for public service in the Queen’s Birthday Honour’s List.

In the 14 years Bell held the chief executive role at StepChange, the organisation, which aims to help its clients pay back what they owe in a realistic timescale and manner, has grown extensively. In 2012, it managed £3.8bn worth of debt and helped clients repay almost £327m to creditors, local authorities and government.

When Bell joined StepChange, it had 65 members of staff. It now employs over 15 times that number.

Bell said: “I am proud to have built StepChange into the largest specialist debt advice charity operating across the UK, helping half a million people a year and employing over 1,000 people. I leave it in good hands and I wish Mike every success in the future.”