The following announcement was written by the Society of Genealogists:

The Society of Genealogists is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Wanda Wyporska, as its new CEO, following an open competitive process. An historian of the Early Modern period, her first book was shortlisted for the Katharine Briggs Folklore Award and she regularly contributes to a range of historical events, podcasts and interviews.

Dr Wyporska joins the Society after leading The Equality Trust for five years, where she oversaw digital innovation, significant diversification of income, and a doubling of staff. She is also a trustee of Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, the Association of Chief Executives of Voluntary Organisations (ACEVO) and Redthread. She is also a Visiting Research Fellow at the University of York. She will take up the role on October 1st, 2021.

Ed Percival, Chair of the Board of Trustees, Society of Genealogists said:

“We are extremely pleased to welcome Wanda into this role at such an exciting time for the Society of Genealogists. We are in the midst of an ambitious transformation, which will see us move to new premises, transform our membership services and forge new partnerships.

Not only does Wanda bring significant experience as a CEO and leader in the voluntary sector, but, also, crucially for the Society and its members, she brings a real passion for social history.”

“We are extremely grateful to Laura Doyle for the incredible work she has done as Interim CEO, stepping in to take the helm in December 2020. Her wonderful leadership has ensured that our members, staff and volunteers have had continuity and been supported over a very challenging year.”

Dr Wanda Wyporska, incoming CEO said:

“I am absolutely thrilled to be joining the Society of Genealogists, especially at such an exciting time. Having spent the happiest years of my life in libraries and archives, it is a real privilege to be taking up this role. Studying our family history is a wonderful way of finding out more about ourselves and where we come from and the Society of Genealogists helps people to discover their own place in history. I’m looking forward to meeting staff and members and especially the fantastic volunteers who play such an important role.”