We are delighted to announce that Mark Wood CBE has been appointed as Chair Designate, following a thorough recruitment process. 

He will take over from Sir Robin Millar CBE, who reaches the end of his final term as Trustee and Chair tomorrow. 

Mark brings extensive leadership and governance experience from across the charity and business sectors. Throughout his career, he has held senior executive and board positions, leading major organisations and helping to drive long-term growth and impact. 

He served as Chair of the NSPCC for 9 years and was awarded a CBE in 2017 for services to children and young people. 

Mark also has a personal connection to disability. This has helped shape his commitment to inclusion and equality.  

He joins us with a strong belief in the importance of creating a more equal future with disabled people. 

Thank you to Sir Robin Millar 

We would like to thank Robin for his leadership, support and commitment to Scope during his time with us. Under Sir Robin’s steer, Scope has taken bold steps towards building An Equal Future with disabled people. This has included navigating major change, responding to national challenges, and staying focused on our purpose.  

When speaking about his appointment, Mark Wood said: 

“I am honoured to be joining Scope as Chair Designate, especially at this important time for disability equality. There are 16 million disabled people in the UK and they still face barriers that limit opportunity and participation in everyday life. 

"Scope has a powerful track record of driving change, challenging inequality and amplifying the voices of disabled people across the UK. I am excited to help lead the next phase of its work. 

"I look forward to working with the Board, Executive Team, colleagues and disabled people across the UK to deliver Scope's ambitious strategy. 

Together, we will create an equal future for disabled people.”   

John McLachlan, Scope’s Chief Executive, said: 

“I am delighted to welcome Mark to Scope as our Chair Designate. 

Mark brings a wealth of experience, a broad range of skills and a personal connection with disability. These qualities will be invaluable as we continue delivering our ambitious strategy to create an equal future with disabled people. 

At a time when disabled people continue to face significant barriers, Scope is determined to drive lasting change. Mark's leadership, insight and commitment to a fairer society will help us strengthen our impact and accelerate progress towards disability equality. 

I would also like to thank Sir Robin Millar CBE, who leaves us after completing his maximum two terms as Trustee and Chair. We are deeply grateful for his dedication, guidance and stewardship, and for the lasting contribution he has made to Scope and our mission."