Former journalist and political commentator Peter Kellner has been appointed as the new chair of NCVO.

He replaces Martyn Lewis who will step down in November after six years in the role.

In a statement today, Kellner said he was “excited to succeed Sir Martyn and to join Stuart Etherington and his team at this challenging time for the voluntary sector”.

“My aim is to support the continuing quest of the sector to be dynamic, innovative and professional, as well as caring, public-spirited and well-respected – and then to help tell that story persuasively to the outside world,” he said.

“In an era when family budgets are tight, and government finances face relentless pressure, that task – and NCVO's role – is more vital than ever.”

Kellner’s appointment follows a competitive recruitment process, led by NCVO’s president, Tanni Grey-Thompson. The appointment, for a three-year term, is subject to official confirmation at NCVO’s annual general meeting in November.

Today Sir Martyn Lewis said he was “absolutely delighted to be handing the chair's baton over to Peter in November”.

“He has a truly vast range of experience that embraces the business, media and political worlds as well as the voluntary sector, and this will be invaluable to help steer the NCVO ship through the unpredictable waters ahead,” he said.

Lewis said he has “greatly enjoyed the challenges and changes” during his six years as chair.

“I know that Peter will greatly enjoy working with Sir Stuart and his hugely talented team,” he said.

NCVO is currently recruiting for a further three-year trustee position which is due to become vacant later this year.

Potential candidates will be nominated by an NCVO member organisation by Wednesday 24 August, a spokesman said.