Lepra, which supports people affected by Leprosy, has appointed Jimmy Innes as its next chief executive.

He joins from global disability organisation ADD, where he held the same role and replaces Geoff Prescott, who has led Lepra since 2017.

Innes’ previous roles have included being a country director for BBC Media Action in Tanzania.

Lepra is a UK based charity working in India, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe and was formed in 1924.

“I am thrilled to take the helm of this deeply respected organisation as we near Lepra’s centenary year in 2024,” said Innes.

“Lepra wears its values proudly on its sleeve in everything it does – placing paramount importance on the interests of people affected by leprosy and working for the benefit of the most neglected and most marginalised.

“I am very much looking forward to leading and living Lepra’s value-driven approach in my new role, working alongside my colleagues in the UK, India and Bangladesh who do extraordinary work, every day, in support of our vision of a world free from prejudice and disability due to leprosy”.

Lepra chair Suzanne McCarthy added: “In Jimmy Innes we have chosen a proven leader with a deep understanding of international development, the disability agenda and a clear vision for the future.

“He appreciates the crucial role Lepra plays both here in the UK and overseas.”

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