Cure Parkinson’s has promoted its deputy chief executive Helen Matthews to CEO.

She has been with the charity since it formed 17 years ago, including a stint as chief operation officer, and takes up her new role this summer.

Matthews replaces Will Cook, who became CEO in 2017 and is to continue being involved with the charity to support its major clinical trial funding partnerships.

“As the charity has grown with traditional fundraising income risen over the last few years, this is a burgeoning area of great potential to support more crucial, large-scale trials,” said the charity.

Matthews said: “I am honoured to step into the role of CEO. Thanks to Will’s vision and commitment, our dedicated team of staff, our incredible supporters, and through our collaboration with leading scientists and research organisations throughout the world, we are continuing to break new ground.

“Our mission is clear and urgent, to find the cure for Parkinson’s that is so desperately needed.”

Cook has also been appointed chair of the charity’s development board and will support individual philanthropy relationships on a voluntary basis.

He said: “We have great potential for delivering further crucial large-scale trials. So driving forward our funding partnerships is the single most impactful area I can influence within Cure Parkinson’s.”

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