Javed Khan has spent seven years at the helm of Barnardo's

Javed Khan, chief executive of Barnardo’s, has stepped down after seven years in the role.

Khan said in an announcement on the charity’s website last week that he had decided to leave the charity after “reflecting in some depth on what is best for me and my family”.

He said he would continue to support the charity’s board until the end of the year, but he stepped down as chief executive last Monday (26 July), the same day as Barnardo’s staff were informed.

Lynn Perry, corporate director of children’s services operations, has been appointed acting chief executive.

Khan said in a statement to stakeholders: “After over seven highly rewarding years as chief executive of this tremendous charity, and reflecting in some depth on what is best for me and my family, I wanted to let you know that I will be moving on.

“I will be continuing to support the board until the end of December.

“Ever since I arrived here in May 2014, I have been mesmerised by the brilliance of Barnardo’s. However, all things considered, I believe the time is right for me and for Barnardo’s to move forward with a new leader.”

John Bartlett, chair of Barnardo’s, thanked Khan for his “significant contributions to the charity” over the past seven years.

“The charity has thrived in this period, reaching more vulnerable children than ever before, and growing its capacity for innovation, including through the Barnardo’s Foundation and The BU, Barnardo’s corporate university.

“We are particularly grateful to Javed and the whole leadership team for successfully steering the charity through the Covid-19 pandemic.”

Khan, who was appointed OBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours this year, will continue to receive a salary as he works alongside the charity to support the transition to a new leader, a spokesperson said.