A NEW executive director has been appointed at Jersey Overseas Aid following the death of Simon Boas.
Edward Lewis was selected following a global recruitment process overseen by the Jersey Appointments Commission, JOA has announced.
Mr Lewis previously served as interim executive director of the international aid charity.
He is taking on the permanent role following the death of Mr Boas, who died from throat cancer in July last year at the age of 47, and spent his final months inspiring millions with his reflections on life, love and joy.
In a statement announcing Mr Lewis’ appointment, JOA said Mr Lewis “stood out” in an “excellent” field of candidates and that the panel’s decision was “unanimous”.
JOA said: “Edward’s interpersonal skills, professional and practical experience in the development sector, together with his commitment to delivering JOA’s mission stood out.”
Mr Lewis joined the charity seven years ago and has been an “integral part” of the organisation’s professionalism, according to JOA.
Mr Lewis said he was honoured to lead an organisation that he said represented the “very best of Jersey”.
He added: “I am incredibly excited at the prospect of building on the tremendous work of the Commission and that of my predecessor, Simon Boas, taking the organisation forward and enhancing its reputation as a world-class development donor.”
Deputy Carolyn Labey, chair of JOA and International Development Minister, said: “Along with my fellow commissioners, I would like to congratulate Edward, and look forward to working with him as the organisation’s reach and reputation grows both on island and within the international community.”
Later this year, JOA will host a United Nations event, welcoming government representatives and officials from the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.
