Leading lung charity, Asthma + Lung UK, today (Wednesday 2nd August) announces the departure of its chief executive, Sarah Woolnough.
After three years of exemplary service, Sarah Woolnough will be leaving Asthma + Lung UK to join The King’s Fund as its chief executive in early 2024.
Under Sarah Woolnough’s leadership, Asthma + Lung UK has achieved many major milestones, including completing the merger of the UK’s two leading lung health charities (Asthma UK and the British Lung Foundation), a rebrand and an ambitious new strategy to transform lung health, including advocating for improved diagnosis and care, increased investment in research and cleaner air for all. She has also led efforts to get new projects off the ground including expanding the services and support available for people living with lung conditions, particularly in poorly served communities.
The board of trustees are grateful for everything that Sarah has done for the millions of people affected by lung conditions. The charity will begin the search for Sarah's successor to ensure a seamless transition and continued progress towards achieving the organisation's mission of creating a world where good lung health and the ability to breathe freely are a basic right enjoyed by all.
Tamara Ingram OBE, chair of the board of trustees at Asthma + Lung UK, said:
“Sarah Woolnough is an exceptional leader and colleague, a passionate advocate for people with lung conditions and has created a truly positive and rewarding place to work, empowering people to be their best. She has played a pivotal role in shifting attitudes towards lung conditions, and given a voice to those affected, when they have often been neglected in the past.
“The charity wishes Sarah the very best in her new role and looks forward to continuing on the legacy of her impactful work with the same compassion, energy and ambition.”
Sarah Woolnough, CEO of Asthma + Lung UK, said:
“It has been an absolute privilege leading Asthma + Lung UK over the last three years. I have been extremely lucky to work with such talented colleagues, volunteers and stakeholders across the sector, and working with people who are affected by lung conditions has been the greatest honour of all.
“I have huge confidence in the charity’s future, and I am delighted that in my new role I will be working to ensure the best possible health and care is available to all, including those with lung conditions.”