Parkinson’s UK has appointed a director from the NHS’s Health Research Authority (HRA) to lead its newly merged policy and communications directorate.

Juliet Tizzard is joining the charity in the summer in the newly created role of director of external affairs and communication, following “a realignment of teams”, said Parkinson’s UK.

At the HRA she is director of policy and partnerships. She has also held communication, policy and strategy roles at the Human Fertilization and Embryology Authority and the British Medical Association.

“The opportunity to join Parkinson’s UK was one that I jumped at,” said Tizzard.

“The passion, openness and boldness that I have seen from the charity and the Parkinson’s community at large is very impressive and I’m thrilled that I get to be part of that. There’s lots still to do to make sure that people with Parkinson’s are not forgotten or overlooked by society and decision makers, but the will to achieve this is evident.

“This is a very exciting time to be joining the fantastic team at Parkinson’s UK and I can’t wait to get started at the end of July.”

Parkinson’s UK chief executive Caroline Rassell added: “I’m excited about this new role and Juliet’s appointment. After a period of uncertainty and change in the external world, Parkinson’s UK needed to change how we were structured so that we could respond to the opportunities and challenges that we’re now presented with, with a bold, unified voice that will deliver real impact for the Parkinson’s community.

“With Juliet’s appointment, we have someone with incredible experience in health and research organisations bringing vision and leadership.

“Juliet impressed all the groups she met as part of the interview process, from colleagues to members of the Parkinson’s community. Her ability to ask the challenging questions and to really grasp what our community and audience needs, really stood out. Her approach to co-creating work with those at the heart of the issue, entirely reflects our values and approach.”

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