The incoming chief executive of Unlock has withdrawn from the role before taking it up.
The charity, which supports people with criminal convictions, announced on 18 January that Andrew Henley would join it as chief executive on 1 February.
But Unlock said in a statement yesterday that Henley would no longer be taking up the role.
“We recently announced a permanent CEO for Unlock after an extensive search process,” the charity said.
“However, after further discussions and considerations, combined with ongoing health issues, Dr Andrew Henley has decided that it is not the right time for him to take up the role.
“The board wishes him well for the future.”
The statement said Justina Forristal and Jo Easton would continue as joint interim chief executives after Henley was unable to join.
Henley spent more than 10 years working as an academic criminologist at Keele University and the University of Nottingham and completed a PhD on the introduction of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, which aimed to provide legal protection against discrimination for people with criminal records.
He had also previously volunteered for the charity and spent six years as one of its trustees.
Big News!
We’re delighted to announce the appointment of our new CEO, Dr Andrew Henley.
A renowned expert on the impact of criminal records, Andrew will take up the position of CEO on 1 February – read more about him here: https://t.co/C8l6rM1ttZ
— Unlock (@unlockcharity) January 18, 2024
“I am both proud and excited to have been given the honour of becoming Unlock’s new CEO,” he said when he was announced as the charity’s next leader.
“My passion for critically questioning unfair discrimination against people with criminal records has always motivated me in my previous career as a researcher and educator.
“Unlock has done more than any other organisation to support those trying to move forwards positively with their lives, whilst also challenging government, employers and others to adopt more inclusive approaches.
“The opportunity to now lead this charity is one which I am greatly looking forward to.”