The charity Changing Faces, which supports people who have a scar, mark or condition that makes them visibly different, has appointed Heather Blake as its new chief executive.
Blake, director of support and influencing at Prostate Cancer UK, will succeed Becky Hewitt, who announced in November that she planned to step down.
Hewitt will remain in post until Blake takes up the role on 17 May, which is the start of Changing Faces’ annual Face Equality Week.
Blake has previously held senior operational and strategic management roles in the NHS, and is a trustee and chair of the Patient Services Committee at the Royal Trinity Hospice, Clapham.
She said it would be a privilege to lead Changing Faces in the next stage of its journey and help empower more people to live with confidence and self-esteem.
The charity also said that Catherine Deakin, its director of fundraising and communications, would take on the role of deputy chief executive in addition to her existing responsibilities.
David Clayton, chair of Changing Faces, said: “Heather’s appointment brings extensive senior leadership and healthcare experience at an exciting and pivotal time for Changing Faces, as we focus on service innovation and being a leading voice for people with visible differences.
“Having Catherine Deakin in the role of deputy chief executive is wonderful and a real testament to the dedication, commitment and leadership Catherine has shown over the last few years, especially during the pandemic.”