Scouts has appointed the British Red Cross’s UK director for crisis response and community resilience to become its executive director of operations.

Matthew Killick has been at the British Red Cross for just under six years, leading responses to major crises, including Covid-19, the Afghanistan evacuation and the charity’s response to the war in Ukraine.

At the international aid charity he also led its medical services.

Former youth worker Killick has also worked for Barnardo’s and Catch 22.

At Scouts his role will cover its youth programmes, safety and safeguarding, member support and growth and community work. He takes over in August.

“I’m beyond excited about joining an organisation that makes such an impact on the lives of hundreds of thousands of young people in the UK,” said Killick.

“Working together with the amazing volunteers that make Scouts possible, I’m looking forward to helping ensure even more children and young people have the chance to be part of Scouts.”

Scouts chief executive Matt Hyde added: “Securing a fantastically talented individual like Matt will help Scouts to grow in new communities so even more young people can learn skills for life. I know everyone will welcome Matt to Scouts when he joins us later this summer.”

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