Matt Stringer, Chief Executive of the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) has announced that he will be stepping down from his role.
Matt has led RNIB through some challenging times such as the statutory inquiry, the Covid-19 pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis. He’s led the development and implementation of a new strategic direction, which reconnects RNIB with its core purpose to drive forward the large-scale social change needed to create a society without barriers for blind and partially sighted people.
Recruitment for Matt’s successor will begin in May 2025 to make an appointment later in the year for a January 2026 start date. Matt will officially step down in December 2025, allowing time for a full handover.
In sharing the decision with RNIB’s Board of Trustees, colleagues and partners, Matt said: “I’m immensely proud of leading RNIB through the last six years, continuing our vital work in supporting blind and partially sighted people, and positioning us at the forefront of informing the national debate around eye health and eye care.
“It feels like the right time to pass on the baton, with the organisation in good shape and facing confidently into the future.”
Matt added that it’s the right time for him at this stage in his career to semi-retire. He will pursue some Non-Exec roles, along with personal interests, and plans to stay involved with RNIB through avenues such as volunteering.
Anna Tylor, Chair of Trustees added: “The charity sector has faced unprecedented challenges over the last six years, between the COVID-19 pandemic, cost-of-living crisis and so much more. Matt’s leadership has been instrumental in ensuring RNIB maintained momentum, and relentlessly continued to pursue our goals, reaching more people year-on-year.
“With Matt at the helm, the charity is financially fit and already making strides with our new strategy. Matt has managed our recent organisation-wide transformation expertly and has the full support of the Board in the changes that he has brought about within the organisation to improve it for the better. We’re incredibly grateful to Matt for everything he’s done for RNIB and wish him all the very best for the future.”
Matt joined the charity in 2019 after thirty years in the retail sector, where he held senior leadership roles for well-known high street brands including Marks and Spencer, Carphone Warehouse and Mothercare.”
