Disability charity Sense has appointed James Watson-O’Neil as its next chief executive.

Watson-O’Neil, who is deaf, joins from hearing impairment charity SignHealth, where he has held the same role for the last eight years.

He takes up the his new role at Sense and Sense International in February 2025 and replaces Richard Kramer.

He as more than 20 years experience in the charity sector, including roles at Scope and NSPCC.

Two years ago Watson-O’Neil was awarded an OBE for services to deaf people.

“I am honoured to be appointed as the new chief executive of Sense and Sense International, he said.

“For 70 years, Sense has delivered vital support to disabled people and their families, working alongside them to campaign for a fairer society for disabled people.

“I want to build on Richard's fantastic leadership and work with the team to keep growing the organisation as a force for positive change. I am really excited to be leading the next chapter and can't wait to meet the people Sense supports, their families, staff and volunteers”.

Sense chair Justin Molloy added: “His understanding and commitment to Sense’s history and ambitions for improving the lives of people with complex disabilities shone through, as did his leadership and character.

“I’m looking forward to working with him and the rest of the outstanding team at Sense. I would like to take the opportunity to thank Richard Kramer who has led Sense with such skill and commitment.

“I’m confident that James is the right person to lead us into our exciting next chapter.”

Research published last year found that the charity sector “still has a long way to go” to tackle inequality in top roles.

---