Vidha Alekeson is stepping down as chief executive of Power to Change after seven years to become Labour Party leader Keir Starmer’s director of external relations.

She leaves the community business charity this month and will take up her new role advising Starmer around his communications in March.

Although she officially stood down last week, she will continue to support the charity until the end of February to ensure a smooth transition in leadership.

Director of strategy and programmes at the charity Tim Davies-Pugh will take over as interim CEO and recruitment for a permanent leader will begin shortly, said Power to Change.

“Vidhya’s leadership of Power to Change has expertly steered the organisation from an initial idea, through start up and onto maturity,” the charity added.

“Under Vidhya’s leadership, Power to Change has made a significant contribution to growing the community business sector.

“It has invested more than £100m in community businesses, particularly those in the most disadvantaged parts of the country. It has helped communities establish and grow impactful local businesses that benefit their local community, take ownership of important buildings and land that matter to them, and deliver vital services to local people.

“The Board and team at Power to Change will miss Vidhya’s leadership, energy and expertise and thank her for her outstanding contribution to the sector, hard work and dedication over the last seven years.”

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