WAR Child UK, the specialist charity for children affected by conflict, has announced the appointment of John Fallon as its new Chair of Trustees.
Since 2013 John has been CEO of Pearson, the FTSE 100 learning company. Its track record of supporting the pursuit of educational opportunities for children in developing countries, including through the delivery of high-quality education to Syrian refugees and host community children in Jordan, complements War Child’s mission to protect, educate and stand up for children in war zones.
John succeeds Sacha Deshmukh who is stepping down as Chair after completing six years of service. During his tenure War Child UK has seen rapid growth in annual income, from £6 million to £21 million, meaning the charity has been able to reach more children and increase its impact in war zones.
John Fallon incoming Chair said:
“In these uncertain times, the work to give every child the best possible start in life – especially those growing up in countries in conflict – is more important than ever. I’m impressed by the purpose, people and ambition of War Child and I’m looking forward to taking on this role.”
Sacha Deshmukh, departing Chair said:
“It has been a huge pleasure to help War Child UK make such rapid progress towards achieving its mission. We have gone through several stages of growth in a short space of time. I’m delighting to be handing on the Chair to someone as experienced and committed as John Fallon.”
Rob Williams, CEO of War Child UK said:
“I’m incredibly thankful to our departing Chair, and we have benefitted greatly from Sacha’s commitment and contributions over the past six years. However, I’m delighted to congratulate John and welcome him to the team. We were pleased with the intelligence and energy which Prospectus applied to this search and we are very happy to have found a new Chair who gives us such a lot of confidence about our ability to continue to grow and develop in our specialist and challenging mission.”
War Child UK partnered with Prospectus to undertake a wide search for a new Chair who shares their commitment to the safety and dignity of children.
