Richard Parry is to stand down from his role as chief executive of the UK’s Canal & River Trust charity.
The chief executive, who has served 12 years in the post, will step down in summer 2025.
A recruitment process for his replacement will now take place.
Richard joined the Trust in 2013, a year after its creation, and has led the Trust through its formative years.
“It has been an honour to lead the Trust through such a key period, working to build a sustainable future for our historic canal network, increasing the number of people benefiting from it and wider appreciation of its value to the nation,” he said.
“I have loved working with such committed colleagues and a rising number of amazing volunteers who together deliver the ongoing care that the 250-year-old canal infrastructure demands – and making so many friends amongst those who use our canals and share our passion for them.”
He has been dedicated to the national treasure that is our canal network.
David Orr
And he said that after 12 years, it is the ‘right time’ for him to hand over the reins and leave the charity.
“My departure this summer will fit into a cycle of succession, so that David and the new chief executive can look to the longer-term future, including strengthening the Trust’s partnership with Government with over four years of the current parliamentary term to run,” he said.
Charity chair, David Orr, praised Richard’s contribution to the charity saying he has led the organisation through many challenges and chalked up many achievements over the past 12 years.
“He has been dedicated to the national treasure that is our canal network, venturing across the country to be a visible, engaging leader,” continued David.
And he concluded by saying the charity faces many challenges but also opportunities in the forthcoming years to support national priorities and improve the lives of millions of people.
