An open application process for the role has been launched

A major UK charity sector figure has announced he will retire.

Sir Stuart Etherington, chief executive of the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) – the umbrella body for England – will step down after 25 years in the role.

Etherington is standing aside in the organisation’s centenary and will leave later this year.

A search is now on for his successor in the £141,400 role.

Etherington was knighted for services to the voluntary sector in2010 and in 2015, he was appointed by the government to lead the review into the self-regulation of fundraising in the wake of the Olive Cooke scandal.

Peter Kellner, chair of NCVO, said: "He has guided the NCVO from strength to strength during even the most challenging times.”

Etherington began his career has as a social worker, and was chief executive of the RNID, now Action on Hearing Loss, before joining the NCVO.

His departure date is not yet set and will depend on when his successor can take up the role.

He intends to pursue a classics diploma and write radio plays.

Etherington said: “It has been a huge privilege to work alongside the incredible people and organisations that make up our sector.

'I would strongly encourage anyone to consider applying for this job. The pace of change in the sector has been phenomenal over the last twenty-five years, and this is a trend I am sure will continue, making this an immensely exciting and rewarding role.

'You will have the privilege of leading a high-performing organisation full of talented staff providing practical support to thousands of members, while also playing a crucial role in shaping a wider policy environment that enables charities and volunteering to thrive.'

An open application process for the role, which is being managed by the executive search firm Green Park, has been launched.

Kellner said the umbrella body would be looking for a successor who could bring fresh ideas alongside "sharp strategic thinking".