Social Enterprise UK (SEUK) has named Lord Victor Adebowale as its new chair for an initial three-year term.
He takes over from Claire Dove, chair since 2008, who is now appointed as a patron of Social Enterprise UK, joining Baroness Thornton, Lord Bird and Mr David Gold.
Lord Adebowale is chief executive of Turning Point, a social enterprise providing services across mental health, learning disability, substance misuse and employment. He is also on the boards of the Co-operative Group and NHS England. A cross-bench peer with no party political affiliation, he joined the House of Lords in 2001.
Previously, he was chief executive of youth homelessness charity Centrepoint.
“As someone who leads a social enterprise I am committed to the social enterprise movement,” he said. “We have an opportunity to redefine an economy based on business that matters to society and not just shareholder interests.
“Recent domestic and world events mean that the social enterprise model of doing business has never been more needed if we are to create the ‘inclusive economy’. I look forward to working with SEUK and am honoured to have been made their chair.
“Together with SEUK, I am determined that we present the public with a clear view of what social enterprise can offer and the value it can add to the lives of individuals, and the communities in which they live.”
SEUK is the national apex body for social enterprises, with members ranging from local grass-roots organisations to multi-million pound businesses, including co-ops.
Peter Holbrook, chief executive of SEUK, added: “We’re delighted that Victor will be taking up the position of chair. He’s an outstanding entrepreneur, passionate about social justice and will bring a vast amount of insight and expertise to the role.
“Victor will be joining us at what is a hugely exciting time for the social enterprise movement and for SEUK. Social enterprises are providing answers to the most pressing issues we’re facing from the crisis in social care to the building of a more equal economy that really works for everyone. Lord Victor’s knowledge, experience and vision will be invaluable in helping steer us through the coming years and in seizing the opportunities that exist.”
