Charity looking for new head

Cancer Research UK is looking for a new chief executive after Sir Harpal Kumar announced he is retiring in spring 2018.

He joined the charity 15 years ago during which time he overseen income growth and expanded the organisation’s research role.

Receiving a knighthood in the 2016 New Year’s Honours in recognition for his work in the fight against cancer, Kumar most notably took charge of the #Nomakeupselfie campaign – one of the most successful fundraisers of its kind, raising £8 million in just six days.

He holds a masters in chemical engineering from the University of Cambridge and an MBA as a Baker Scholar from Harvard Business School.

He worked previously for the Atomic Energy Authority, McKinsey and Co, and was chief executive of The Papworth Trust.

He said: “My passion and excitement for Cancer Research UK’s work is as high as it has ever been. But I have always believed that organisations benefit from refreshed leadership every so often and Cancer Research UK is no exception.

“Our progress is accelerating, and patients and the public are realising the benefit of our work in ever greater numbers.

“I am deeply grateful to every volunteer, scientist, member of staff and supporter for the outstanding contributions they have made since I’ve been chief executive.

“I look forward to using my remaining time with the organisation to continue to advance our critically important mission.”

Professor Sir Leszek Borysiewicz, chairman of Cancer Research UK, thanked Kumar.

He added: “I am delighted that Harpal has agreed to stay on until the spring and we have commenced a search for his replacement. We anticipate being able to make an appointment to coincide with Harpal’s departure and plan for a smooth transfer.”