Richard Franklin has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of Kisharon, the charity for children and adults with learning disabilities.

Currently serving as Acting Chief Executive, Richard previously spent most of his six year tenure at the organisation as its Director of Fundraising and Communications, during which period he oversaw an increase of its annual income from £1.6m to in excess of £6m,  raising funds for a number of projects including the current redevelopment of Kisharon’s new school scheduled for completion in 2020.

Richard’s extensive experience in the not-for-profit sector includes senior roles at Crisis UK and Jewish Care, prior to which he was a partner in city law firm, Nicholson Graham and Jones. In his spare time, Richard also serves as Warden at Highgate Synagogue.

Philip Goldberg, Chair of Trustees, said: “Following a long and extensive search, it was clear Richard was the stand-out candidate. Richard has shown great dedication and made huge achievements over the past six years. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we wish him every success in his new and pivotal role at Kisharon.”

Richard Franklin, Chief Executive, said: “Kisharon is a remarkable and unique organisation in which it has been my privilege to serve. I am looking forward to working with our excellent Trustee Board, Senior Leadership team and staff, whose healthy ambitions for people with learning disabilities match my own, to ensure that everyone impacted by this wonderful charity can learn, develop and grow together.”