Autism research charity Autistica has appointed Elizabeth Archer as its next chief executive.

Archer, who is known as Ed, will join in June from from another autism focused charity PDA Society, where she has been CEO since 2023. PDA is a profile of autism involving avoidance of everyday demands.

She has been working in senior roles for disability charities since 2010, including as national strategic lead for children and young people at Mencap, project director at the SEND Consortium and policy and campaigns director at Ambitious about Autism.

"I’ve been a fan of Autistica for many years, so I’m completely delighted to be joining the team as CEO,” said Archer.

"Their commitment to evidence, partnership and real impact strongly aligns with my own, and I’m excited to work together to deliver our vision of helping autistic people live happier, healthier and longer lives.

“There is still much to do to turn that vision into reality - particularly in tackling the stark inequalities autistic people continue to face - and Autistica’s role in producing trusted evidence and translating that into real-world change has never been more important.”

The last permanent chief executive James Cusack left at the end of last year after leading the charity for a decade. He is now CEO of PSPA, the charity that supports people living with progressive supernuclear palsy and corticobasal degeneration.

Archer replaces interim chief executive Rebecca Sterry, who is Autistica’s director of external affairs.

Autistica char Stephen Boyle said: “We are delighted to welcome Elizabeth to lead the team at Autistica.

"She brings a wealth of experience from her roles at other autism and learning disability charities and is passionate about the unique role that Autistica can play.

“She is committed to working closely with our community and other organisations who can help us to achieve the change that autistic people want to see in the world.

“At this stage in our journey, Elizabeth’s strategic approach and professional and personal experience will be a huge asset to the charity."

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