HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust has appointed Dr Rosemary Gillespie as its new Chief Executive, following Sir Nick Partridge’s departure last year.

Gillespie’s previous roles have included Chief Executive of international HIV awareness charity AVERT, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Policy and Research for Breast Cancer Care, and Chief Executive of the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation.

Professor Chris Bones, Chair of Trustees at Terrence Higgins Trust, said: ‘[Gillespie] brings a remarkable combination of clinical practice, health management and charity leadership at a critical time for THT’s development. No organisation can stay still in the current economic climate and Drher track record of successful change and innovation across a number of sectors will help us meet the challenges ahead in both HIV and the wider area of sexual health.’

The recruitment process was provided by executive search firm The Talent Business, working on a pro bono basis. Kate Harrison, Partner at The Talent Business, said: ‘The Talent Business is used to leading “C Suite” talent searches on a daily basis, but it has been a particular pleasure to partner Terrence Higgins Trust in the search for a new CEO. I believe the organisation deserves an inspirational leader to help it grow to the next level, and this appointment should help secure a bright future.’

Dr Gillespie will begin her role as Chief Executive on Tuesday 1 April.