National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) chief executive Sarah Elliot has been appointed to lead Shelter.

She is to join the homelessness charity as chief executive in September after five years at the NCVO.

Elliot joined the charity sector body in 2020 as its director of membership and engagement, was promoted to interim chief executive a year later and took the role on a permanent basis in March 2022.

She is also a former chief executive of The Neurological Alliance and has held senior roles at Epilepsy Society, In Kind Direct and with King Charles’ charities when he was The Prince of Wales.

She takes over from interim chief executive Tim Gutteridge, who took over the role following the departure of the previous permanent chief executive Polly Neate last month.

Priorities for Elliot at Shelter including leading the charity’s campaigning around increasing social housing and giving people the right to a safe home.

“After a highly competitive recruitment process, I am delighted that Sarah will be joining us to lead Shelter’s fight for home,” said Shelter chair Helen MacNamara.

“Sarah brings with her such a wealth of passion and experience, particularly in bringing organisations and decision-makers together to create lasting change.

“Her unwavering commitment to challenging power, privilege and systemic inequality is a clear cornerstone of her leadership.

“Sarah is fearless and compassionate, and we are excited about what we will achieve together with Sarah in this critical period for housing justice.”

Elliot added: “I am proud of what the NCVO team has achieved over the last five years, and it is a privilege to be taking on this role at one of the most influential change-making organisations in the sector.

“I am honoured to have the opportunity to build on Shelter’s incredible track record successfully campaigning for, and supporting, those affected by the housing emergency.

“Like everyone who is part of this incredible charity, I am impatient for change and am determined to help us deliver it.”

---