Christian Aid Appoints Next Chief Executive 

International development charity Christian Aid has appointed its Director of Policy, Public Affairs, and Campaigns and current interim Chief Executive, Patrick Watt, as Chief Executive on a permanent basis. 

Patrick joined Christian Aid in 2019, taking the lead on the organisation’s influencing, evidence and mobilisation strategy in the UK and internationally across a range of issues including economic and climate justice.   

Patrick has vast experience within the third sector. He previously worked for Oxfam, Action Aid, and Save the Children on issues of education, global health, debt and trade, and aid policy.   

The Chair of Christian Aid, Lord Bishop John Sentamu, said:   

I am delighted to announce the appointment of Patrick Watt as Christian Aid’s next Chief Executive. 

Patrick has proven himself as a leader for both Christian Aid and the international development sector as a whole. 

I look forward to continuing to work with Patrick and everyone at Christian Aid in our mission to turn hunger into hope and eradicate extreme poverty across the globe.

Incoming Chief Executive of Christian Aid, Patrick Watt said:   

I feel enormously privileged to be given the opportunity to lead this great organisation on the next stage of its journey, in tackling the root causes of poverty and promoting dignity, equality, and justice. I look forward to working with our passionate and dedicated staff, supporters, partners, and sponsoring churches to realise our vision.    

We’re confronted by stark challenges: the economic fallout from COVID-19, the climate crisis, and the war in Ukraine are combining to push millions of people into poverty.   

Ending the injustice of extreme poverty requires fresh approaches that tackle inequality, strengthen people’s voice and confront abuses of power. I am excited by the opportunity to work as part of a wider movement for change.