The Charity Commission has appointed Paul Latham as its next director of communications and policy.
Latham, who has been director of communications and strategy at the Competitions and Markets Authority since 2014, will succeed Sarah Atkinson, who became chief executive of the Social Mobility Foundation earlier this month.
Latham was previously director of communications at the Office of Fair Trading and has also held senior communications roles at the Confederation of British Industry and the Strategic Rail Authority.
In a statement, Helen Stephenson, chief executive of the Charity Commission, said: “Paul was the outstanding candidate, able to demonstrate extensive experience of strategic communications and public service leadership as well as sharp insight into the crucial role effective communications and smart policy play in regulating a diverse – and largely voluntary – charity sector.
“I am confident that Paul will help us deliver on our ambitious strategy, aimed at maximising the benefit charities bring to society.
Latham said the charity sector’s ability to thrive depended on effective regulation.
“Strong, independent regulators ensure that wrongdoing is challenged, but moreover that good people and good ideas can flourish,” he said. “The Charity Commission is a prime example of that.
“In this context, impactful, strategic communications and a clear policy framework are essential, including in ensuring charity trustees can access the information they need to get things right.”
Latham is expected to join the commission in March.