BBC Children in Need today confirms the appointment of Claire Hoyle as Chief Executive, following a thorough and competitive recruitment process. Claire takes up the role with immediate effect, having served as Chief Executive on an interim basis since December 2025.

Since joining BBC Children in Need in 2018, Claire has played a leading role in reshaping the charity for the future; helping to evolve it into a modern, year-round charity, reversing income decline and strengthening its ability to create lasting change for children across the UK. During her tenure, BBC Children in Need has raised more than £400 million in support of children and young people.

Of the appointment, James Fairclough, Chair, said:

“We were fortunate to attract a strong field of candidates reflecting the importance of this role and the strength of BBC Children in Need. Claire emerged as the outstanding candidate. She demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a deep and strategic understanding of the organisation, combined with a highly relational approach and a proven ability to lead transformational change.

“The Board is delighted to appoint Claire as Chief Executive and excited for the next chapter of BBC Children in Need, driven by her unwavering commitment and passion for improving the lives of children and young people in the UK. Claire is ideally placed to lead the charity through its next phase of innovation and impact”.

Claire Hoyle, commented:

“It is an enormous privilege to lead BBC Children in Need. Over the past eight years, I have seen first-hand the remarkable difference our funding makes to children and young people across the UK – made possible by the unwavering generosity of the public, our partners and the BBC.

“As we look to the future, we have a unique opportunity to go further: to deepen our impact, reach more children, and play an even greater role in helping them build the relationships, confidence and opportunities they need to thrive.

“I look forward to working with our brilliant colleagues, partners and supporters to make that ambition a reality.”