Haemochromatosis UK has appointed its interim chief as its permanent leader.
Jonathan Jelley took up the long-term post at the healthcare charity, which supports people affected by the genetic condition haemochromatosis, last week.
He has been the charity’s interim chief executive since August last year, after its former chief executive, Neil McClements, stepped down.
A spokesperson for Haemochromatosis UK said it “cannot comment on the previous CEO’s personal or professional arrangements”, when asked why he left the post.
Jelley brings a “wealth of leadership experience from across the charitable, public and private sectors” to the top job, the charity said.
Before joining Haemochromatosis UK, Jelley spent six months in 2023 as interim chief executive and scheme manager at Home-Start Cambridgeshire.
He had an international career in investment banking, including as vice-president of NatWest Markets between July 2018 and November 2019.
Jelley also held senior roles at the Royal Bank of Scotland, Bloomberg and HSBC, among others.
Haemochromatosis UK said Jelley had also devoted more than 30 years to public service and voluntary leadership, including at SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity – progressing from local branch leadership to national vice-chair.
He was appointed MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in 2012 in recognition of his service and was awarded SSAFA honorary life membership in 2019.
Jelley chairs Peterborough Council for Voluntary Service, Healthwatch Cambridgeshire & Peterborough and the Peterborough Cathedral Preservation Trust; and serves as a trustee for the Cambridgeshire Community Foundation and Peterborough City Council’s Towns Fund Board.
Jelley said: “Having had the privilege of leading the charity over recent months, I have seen first-hand the incredible difference our charity makes to people and families affected by genetic haemochromatosis.
“I have been inspired by the commitment and passion of everyone involved with the charity, and I am excited about the future.
“Together, we will build on our strong foundations, reach more people across the UK, raise awareness, promote earlier diagnosis and ensure that everyone affected by haemochromatosis has access to the support and information they deserve.”