RNID, the national charity supporting people who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus, has today announced Harriet Oppenheimer as their newly appointed CEO. Harriet, who is currently RNID’s Deputy Chief Executive, will take over leadership of the charity in the new year.
Harriet’s appointment follows current Chief Executive Mark Atkinson’s appointment as Director General of the Royal British Legion after five years at the charity.
Harriet joined RNID in November 2020 after a career as a management consultant at PA Consulting, where she worked across government, health and life sciences sectors, helping organisations shape and deliver strategic change. Her early career was in charities and the NHS. Harriet is also a member of the Board of Trustees of the Refugee Council.
Harriet Oppenheimer, incoming CEO of RNID, said:
“I am thrilled to take on the role of Chief Executive of this great charity for the next phase of our growth. I’m proud of how far RNID has come in recent years, and I’m incredibly excited about the opportunity we have to make a real impact for the 12 million people in the UK who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus.
“Mark has been an outstanding Chief Executive for RNID. Speaking both personally and on behalf of us all, we will miss his vision and leadership, but he leaves behind a thriving organisation. I wish him every success in his future role.
“It’s a huge privilege to be asked to lead this ambitious team of talented people, supported by a strong Board of Trustees. Together, we will end the discrimination faced by our communities, help people hear better now and fund world-class research that will restore hearing and silence tinnitus in the future.”
Ewen Stevenson, Chair of the RNID Board of Trustees, said:
“I am extremely pleased that the Board of Trustees has appointed Harriet to the role of Chief Executive of RNID. She has been a pivotal part of the leadership and strategic direction of the charity for the last three years. Myself and the rest of the Board look forward to working with her over the coming months and years as we increase our impact and make more strides forward for people who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus.
“I would like to thank Mark for his tremendous contribution to RNID since joining in 2018. RNID has been transformed under his leadership.
“Mark leaves behind a strong legacy. Over his five years as CEO he has taken a 112 year old charity and created a modern, digital-first organisation, setting us on a strong strategic path which will continue to deliver impact for our communities for years to come.”
Mark Atkinson, outgoing CEO of RNID, said:
“I leave RNID with an enormous sense of pride at the progress we have made over the last five years and the impact we are achieving through our new strategy. It has been a real honour to lead such a passionate and talented team, and work for a cause that touches so many people’s lives in different ways.
“I’ve worked closely with Harriet for the last three years and know that her drive, energy and strategic vision for RNID will see the organisation continue to grow its reach and impact. I couldn’t be leaving this vital charity in safer hands, and look forward to seeing RNID grow and flourish over coming years.”