Concern Worldwide has appointed a new chief executive.Dominic MacSorley, from Belfast, will succeed Tom Arnold at the start of next month, the Irish humanitarian relief agency said.
Mr MacSorley has worked with Concern since 1982, latterly as director of operations for the organisation's American arm, Concern Worldwide USA.
"Poverty is on the rise as the challenging economic, environment and political conditions affect the poorest most. More than 850 million people went to bed hungry last night," he said.
"This is why Concern exists: it is people reaching out to people. We value hugely the confidence our supporters show in Concern to work with those who need our help the most. Without this trust, our work would not be possible. I am delighted to accept this position."
Mr Arnold recently announced his decision to step down as chief executive after 11 years to chair the Constitutional Convention.
Mr MacSorley has also been part of Concern's rapid deployment unit, a team of experienced and specialist staff available at short notice to respond to emergency situations.
His record of service includes Ethiopia, Sudan, Somalia, Rwanda, Kosovo, Afghanistan, Darfur, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Haiti.
He has also represented Concern and Interaction, the representative body for US non-governmental organisations (NGOs), at the United Nations.
www.concern.net