Former ACEVO chair Rosie Ferguson has been named as the next chief executive of UK Youth.

She will join the young people’s charity at the end of August having served as a trustee for UK Youth for three years until 2015.

Ferguson led charity leaders’ body ACEVO until last year when her six-year term ended.

Also, until last year she was chief executive of The House of Barnabas homelessness charity and has been chief executive of single parents’ charity Gingerbread.

She also has experience of leading a youth charity, having spent around a decade at London Youth, including a four-year stint as its chief executive and holding other senior roles including operations director and head of youth action.

“I am excited to return to the youth sector and bring my energy and experience to champion young people and the opportunities they deserve,” said Ferguson, who has been recognised for services to charity with an OBE in the King’s birthday honours.

“I look forward to working with young ambassadors, trustees, staff, partners, supporters and the whole UK Youth network.”

Alongside her appointment UK Youth has announced that its chair David Thomlinson will be stepping down after five years. He will be replaced by vice chair and trustee since 2016 Matt Price.

“I’m honoured to step into the role of Chair at such an exciting and pivotal time for UK Youth. I’ve seen first-hand the passion, resilience and potential at the heart of this organisation,” said Price.

“I’m looking forward to working with our new CEO Rosie Ferguson, the board and wider team as we build on our momentum and push forward with our mission to champion youth work and create a fairer future for all young people.”

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