Social work charity Frontline has named the permanent successor to chief executive and founder Josh MacAlister, who left earlier this year to lead a ‘once in a generation’ review into children’s social care.

Frontline’s former chief programmes officer Mary Jackson, who has been interim CEO since MacAlister’s departure in February, has been handed the role on a permanent basis.

Jackson, who was also leadership development director for the charity, has more than 15 years experience in senior children’s services roles.

Frontline runs training programmes in social work.

“I am delighted to announce that Mary Jackson has been appointed as Frontline’s new CEO,” said Frontline chair Camila Cavendish.

“She was the stand out candidate in a very competitive field. I look forward to her leading Frontline to new heights in the coming months and years, as we continue to work to improve the lives of children who do not have a safe and stable home.”

Jackson added: “I am incredibly pleased to have been offered the permanent CEO role at Frontline, and would like to thank the board of trustees for this amazing opportunity. Frontline is a fantastic charity, making a real difference in the lives of children and families through our programmes and the great work of our fellows.

“Ensuring that children’s life chances aren’t limited by the circumstances of their family or social situation is at the heart of all that we do, and we will continue to lead improvements in social work practice and leadership, alongside our local authority partners across the country.”

MacAlister is chair of the Independent review of children’s social care, which is currently consulting charities and other children’s professionals as part of a ‘call for advice’ which is shaping the scope of its investigation into the future of support for looked after children.

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