Disability charity Scope has announced Mark Atkinson as its new chief executive.

Atkinson joined the organisation in October 2013, as director of external affairs and was appointed interim chief executive on 4 June 2015.

He has previously worked in senior roles for the Local Government Association, Citizens Advice and Ambitious about Autism. He takes up the role with immediate effect.

Scope had income of over £102.6m in the year to March 2014, according to the latest accounts filed with the Charity Commission. The charity promotes equality, diversity, independence, and health of disabled people by providing a range of support and advocacy.

Chair Andrew McDonald said the board has been greatly impressed by Atkinson’s performance in his time at the charity.

“I announced earlier in the summer that we have started to develop Scope’s future strategy. Mark has led that work and is quite clearly the best person to lead us towards our vision of a society in which disabled people have the same opportunities as everyone else.”

Atkinson said the role is a great privilege, having seen the impact of Scope’s work first hand.

“I’m looking forward to my new role as chief executive and ensuring that Scope continues to influence the agendas that matter most to disabled people as well as providing services that allow disabled people to live the life they choose.”

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