David Knott, who took over as acting chief executive of the National Lottery Community Fund (NLCF) in June has been handed the role on a permanent basis.

Knott had taken on the role temporarily, after being on secondment from the civil service to the NLCF as an advisor since October 2020.

His most recent civil service role was as director for civil society and youth, responsible for charities, volunteering and young people policy.

“Over the last five years we’ve backed more than 72,000 community projects through over £3.4bn of grants. This money is life-changing for people and communities, which is why I am delighted to be leading The National Lottery Community Fund into the next, exciting new chapter, said Knott.

“As we build back from the pandemic, my commitment is to put communities first. The National Lottery Community Fund will be there to support people and communities to prosper and thrive, and we’ll redouble our efforts to have the greatest possible impact we can across the UK.

“As we do this, fairness and inclusion will be at the heart of our organisation. These will be my priority areas as we move forward – there for the communities we serve by being the best we can be.”

NLCF chair Blondel Cluff added: “I am delighted to welcome David Knott as the new Chief Executive. He will lead our organisation forward and ensure that it is confident, accountable and purposeful.”

The last permanent chief executive was Dawn Austwick, who left in 2020. Before Knott took on the role it had been covered by John Rose, who returned to his permanent position as NLCF director for Wales earlier this year.

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