Donna Covey has been appointed as Chief Executive of the Refugee Council and will start on 29 May 2007. Douglas Board, the Chair of the Refugee Council, welcomed the appointment, saying “I am delighted that Donna has agreed to join us. She brings an impressive range of leadership skills to take the Refugee Council forward in its strategic role at a vital time for the sector.”

Donna has been the Chief Executive of Asthma UK since November 2001. Asthma UK is a major health charity funding research programmes, running services, and campaigning and lobbying. During Donna’s time as Chief Executive Asthma UK has gained its first high street charity of the year award, introduced a successful major donor programme, and gained re-accreditation as an Investor in People, as well as winning a series of other awards. Donna has also overseen the development and delivery of a five-year strategic plan, and extended Asthma UK’s reach to Wales and Northern Ireland.

Donna was previously the Chief Executive of the Association of Community Health Councils for England and Wales, and prior to that a had long career in the GMB trade union. Donna was a national officer, with her responsibilities including heading the equality programme, and for ten years was a member of the TUC General Council. Donna has also been a committed volunteer and has taken on a range of positions, including Chair, in organisations as diverse as Wandsworth Community Health Council, the London Food Commission and Battersea Park School.

Anna Reisenberger will continue as Acting Chief Executive until May 2007.