Housing and homelessness charity Shelter has appointed Campbell Robb, the current director general of the Office of the Third Sector in the Cabinet Office, as its new chief executive.

Robb is expected to take up the post on January 1, 2010, applying his knowledge of the sector to the operation of Shelter, founded in 1966 by the Reverend Bruce Kenrick.

Shelter chair professor Tony Crook welcomed the charity board's decision, labelling Robb "a strong candidate" and praising his outstanding knowledge of the voluntary sector and experience of government leadership.

Robb said: "Shelter is more crucial than ever and I look forward to working with clients, staff, donors and partners to make sure that everyone in this country has the right to a safe, affordable and decent home."

The charity's three-year plan includes ensuring people can access and keep a home and boosting the supply of affordable accommodation across England and Scotland.

Speaking on Campbell Robbs’ appointment , ACEVO CEO, Stephen Bubb, said: “Campbell made a real impact as the first director general of the Office of the Third Sector.

"It is essential that the post is filled quickly as it is a key role in the civil service for the sector, we would not want to see it filled on a temporary basis. It will be great to see Campbell as an ACEVO member!”