The women’s and girls’ charity Agenda has appointed Indy Cross as its next chief executive.
Cross, who is head of communications at the criminal rehabilitation charity Spark Inside, will succeed Jemima Olchawski, who has become chief executive of the Fawcett Society.
Agenda said Cross had almost 20 years’ experience in the voluntary sector and has held senior roles at the young people’s enterprise charity the Peter Jones Foundation and Arts Council England.
She has also run strategic brand and communications programmes for high-profile organisations including the London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games and the Government Equalities Office.
Cross said: “I am thrilled to be joining Agenda at a time when the foundation and reputation is so strong; yet we are still young, with lots more vital work to do.
“With incredible support from the sector and beyond, we have the opportunity to grow our impact and make meaningful shifts in systems, services and perceptions. With a team of impressive women alongside me, I am excited to be a part of what our campaigns and projects will do for – and with – women and girls at risk.”
Fiona Mactaggart, chair of Agenda, said: “We are delighted that Indy is joining Agenda and we are confident that under her leadership we will be able to build on what we have achieved in the short life of this very special organisation, and develop an effective future strategy to defend and support women and girls who experience multiple disadvantage.”
Agenda said Jess Southgate had been promoted from policy manager to deputy chief executive.
Tracey Fletcher has been appointed interim chief executive until Cross joins the charity in late January.