ActionAid UK, which campaigns for social justice for women and girls, has made the temporary appointment of two of its co-chief executives permanent.

Its director of advocacy and influencing Hannah Bond and director of innovation and impact Taahra Ghazi were appointed in 2024 as interim co-CEOs of the charity, alongside director of people and culture Shade Odypelu.

“The Board is pleased to appoint Hannah Bond and Taahra Ghazi as permanent Co-CEOs,” said interim chair Faraz Tasnim.

“They bring the experience and vision needed to lead ActionAid UK with integrity, accountability and strong governance, while ensuring our values guide every decision.

"Together with colleagues, partners and movements worldwide, they will drive meaningful change where it matters most.”

Bond and Ghazi take up their permanent roles this month and will continue leading the charity’s strategy that launched last year to strengthen ways of working to shift power to women and girls.

In a statement they said: “We recognise the pivotal moment at which we step into these roles and the responsibility entrusted to us. We are inspired by the dedication and passion of everyone across the organisation and the partners we work with. It's an honour to lead this work alongside them.

"The world is facing an unprecedented crisis for women’s rights. Two-thirds of the world's population now live under closed or repressive governments, with women's rights groups bearing the brunt of systematic attacks on civil society.

“Our focus is on exposing the systemic and increasing discrimination experienced by women and girls and building meaningful partnerships with grassroots women’s rights organisations and movements worldwide.

“Together, we want to ensure that ActionAid UK is a force for meaningful change, hope, and justice around the world.”

The last permanent CEO at ActionAid UK was Halima Begum, who left in 2024 to lead Oxfam.

However, she departed Oxfam late last year amid allegations of bullying and after losing the confidence of the board. Oxfam has this month announced it is commissioning an independent review of its board following Begum’s departure.

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