The Black Equity Organisation, which was launched last year, has named Wanda Wyporska as its chief executive.
Wyporska, who takes up the role in March, will lead the national civil rights charity, set up to tackle systemic racism in the UK.
She joins the BEO from the Society of Genealogists, where she is chief executive.
Wyporska is a former executive director of The Equality Trust, where she led the work of the organisation in its mission to improve the quality of life in the UK by reducing social and economic inequalities.
A BEO press release said: “Dr Wyporska brings a wealth of experience leading charitable and social justice organisations.
“Her expertise lies in shaping and leading strategic campaigns, managing teams and spearheading programmes to raise awareness of economic and social inequalities and diversity issues. At BEO she will drive forward the charity’s strategic ambitions and plans.”
Wyporska has worked at organisations including the Association of Teachers and Lecturers and unionlearn, the TUC’s learning project, as well as serving in advisory roles for The Mayor of London’s Recovery Board, the ONS Inclusive Data Taskforce, the Rowntree Trusts, the Young Women’s Trust, the NUS Poverty Commission and the Sex Education Forum.
Dame Vivian Hunt, chair of the BEO, said: “Wanda has worked on race issues all her life and is in a strong position to span the vast areas of policy, research and campaigning.
“She is skilled at developing strategic partnerships and has worked with an impressive array of charities, government departments, corporates and investors.
“Therefore, we’re delighted to welcome her into the organisation and look forward to the journey we will take together to address the systemic change that is needed in this country to address the underlying inequalities for Black people.”
Wyporska said: “The impacts of systemic racism are well known and so many people and organisations have worked and campaigned against racism.
“I see the essential role of the Black Equity Organisation as building on this work with partners, grassroots organisations and allies to improve outcomes for Black people in the UK.
“I’m excited to join at this time to work with a truly excellent team to drive forward the ambitions and plans to ensure that our communities can truly thrive, not just survive.”
– The article was updated on 20 January 2023. It originally said Wanda Wyporska was the charity’s first permanent chief executive but Jake Ferguson held that role between August 2021 and May 2022.