The learning disability charity Mencap has appointed Khaleel Desai as its new executive director of governance.
Desai, who has spent the past three years as head of governance and company secretary at Islamic Relief Worldwide, will take up the new role on 24 May.
Before joining IRW, Desai held roles at Save the Children International and Plan International, and previously spent 10 years providing legal advice across various central UK government departments.
He has been a trustee for the Mines Advisory Group International since 2019.
Edel Harris, chief executive of Mencap, said: “With a strong background in legal and governance, Khaleel’s extensive experience across the charity sector and the UK government will be of huge value to Mencap as he helps to spearhead our work to campaign for the rights of the 1.5 million people with a learning disability in the UK.”
Desai said: “Mencap’s achievements in positively impacting the lives of people with a learning disability is truly remarkable, and I am delighted to have the opportunity to join the team and contribute at such a critical time.
“I look forward to playing my part in the delivery of the new strategy and achieving Mencap’s vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.”