Saskia brings extensive leadership experience from across the charity, public and membership sectors, with a track record in organisational strategy, stakeholder engagement, transformation and income diversification. She joins Coeliac UK from the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO), where she has held a number of senior leadership positions, including Interim Chief Executive and Chief Commercial Officer.
She has also held senior communications roles in the NHS and senior leadership positions at the National Trust, Shaw Trust and Bristol City Council.
Saskia joins Coeliac UK at an important point in the charity’s development. Working with our staff, volunteers, members, supporters and partners, she will lead the organisation as we strengthen our long-term sustainability and focus our resources where they can make the greatest difference for people affected by coeliac disease.
Chris Dilloway, Chair of Coeliac UK’s Board of Trustees, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Saskia to Coeliac UK as our new CEO. Saskia brings a wealth of experience from across the charity and public sectors, combining strategic leadership with a strong commitment to supporting communities and delivering meaningful change.
“Her proven track record in organisational transformation, engagement and income diversification will be invaluable as we look to build a strong, sustainable future for the charity. The Board was particularly impressed by Saskia’s values-led approach and her clear commitment to ensuring that the needs of people with coeliac disease remain at the heart of everything we do.”
Coeliac UK’s commitment remains unchanged: to improve the lives of people with coeliac disease and to work towards a society that truly understands the condition, so no life is limited by it.
Saskia Konynenburg said:
“For nearly 60 years, Coeliac UK has worked relentlessly to improve the lives of people affected by this life-changing autoimmune condition. I am honoured to take on this important role and excited to build on that proud legacy, working alongside our community to achieve even greater impact.
“As the only UK charity dedicated to improving the lives of people with coeliac disease, we have a vital role to play, but we cannot do it alone. We must increase awareness, strengthen our voice and forge innovative partnerships to improve the health, care and outcomes of everyone living with the condition, while continuing to pursue our ultimate ambition of finding a cure.”
We remain ambitious about the change we want to achieve: improving understanding of coeliac disease, influencing better healthcare and food environments, supporting vital research and helping people with the condition live well.
You can find out more about the difference Coeliac UK is working to make by reading about our work and impact.