Dominic MacSorley, from Belfast, has been appointed as the new chief executive of Concern Worldwide.
He will succeed Tom Arnold at the start of the Irish humanitarian relief agency and will take on the role at the start of April.
Mr MacSorley has worked with Concern since 1982, latterly as director of operations for the organisation’s American arm, Concern Worldwide USA.
“Poverty is on the rise as the challenging economic, environment and political conditions affect the poorest most. More than 850 million people went to bed hungry last night,” he said.
“This is why Concern exists: it is people reaching out to people. We value hugely the confidence our supporters show in Concern to work with those who need our help the most.
“Without this trust, our work would not be possible. I am delighted to accept this position.” Mr Arnold recently announced his decision to step down as chief executive after 11 years to chair the Constitutional Convention.
Mr MacSorley has also been part of Concern’s rapid deployment unit, a team of experienced and specialist staff available at short notice to respond to emergency situations.
He has also represented Concern and Interaction, the representative body for US non-governmental organisations (NGOs), at the United Nations.
PA