Mike Adamson, the acting chief executive of the British Red Cross since the resignation of Sir Nicholas Young, has been appointed to the position on a permanent basis.

Adamson has been filling the role since April, when Young resigned following the death of his son. Adamson was previously managing director of operations at the charity, responsible for leading its UK and international programmes, advocacy work and ensuring a unified approach across all operations.

Accepting the role, Adamson said: “I am honoured to be able to lead the organisation at such an important time. 150 years after the Red Cross was founded, it is as relevant now as ever.

“We are a leading force in the humanitarian sector providing support to over a million people in the UK each year, helping them get back on their feet again after an emergency, after discharge from hospital or as a refugee or asylum seeker.”

David Bernstein, chair of the British Red Cross, said: “After a long and rigorous recruitment campaign we are delighted to confirm Mike Adamson as the successful candidate.

“Mike has been instrumental in shaping our new strategy and brings with him his vast experience of our UK and international work, combined with senior experience in the NHS and commercial sectors. He is very well placed to lead the British Red Cross as we implement our new strategy Refusing to Ignore People in Crisis.”

Between 1992 and 2003 Adamson held a range of positions at the British Red Cross, including head of international programme development, director of the London and south east region and director of strategy, planning and information systems.

Young, who was chief executive of the charity for 13 years, remains involved in the charity as its honorary vice president.