Archived press release

Tony Juniper confirms final year in post

12 October 2007

Tony Juniper has today (Friday 12 Oct 2007) formally announced that he will stand down as Friends of the Earth's Executive Director in the second half of 2008 at the end of a six year period.

Tony will stand down following many achievements, including seeing through the introduction of a UK law on climate change as a result of the Friends of the Earth's ongoing climate campaign, The Big Ask.

Tony Juniper said: "By 2008 I will have been with Friends of the Earth for 18 years and, after six fantastic years as Executive Director, the time will be right to hand on to a new face, and for me to take on new challenges. I have achieved many personal ambitions working as part of a great charity that's made hugely positive changes to the lives of people and their environment, both locally and around the world."

"Thanks to Friends of the Earth's successful public campaigns we are about to get a UK law on climate change, and have already got a law in place that is making doorstep recycling possible for the British public. These are among a great many achievements that it has been my privilege to work towards during my many years with Friends of the Earth. I'm very much looking forward to continuing to lead Friends of the Earth during my final year and to ultimately handing on a vibrant and successful organisation to a new Director in 2008."

Simon Counsell, Chair of Friends of the Earth Board, said:

"The role of Director at Friends of the Earth is extremely demanding, and we have gone from strength to strength under Tony's leadership. Tony has played a key role in presenting solutions to environmental issues both with the public and policy makers.

"In the last six years, Friends of the Earth has had great campaigning successes, including the introduction of the climate change law which is the first of its kind in the world. We've seen a huge increase in public supporters, donations and profile, and steady growth in the number of Friends of the Earth voluntary local groups around the country. We will be in great shape for any new Director."

"Any new Director will need to be an exceptional person, able to publicly champion a charity that makes a real difference to people and the environment as well as a great internal leader. We will be actively inviting applicants from all sectors and look forward to a smooth transition next year."

If you're a journalist looking for press information please contact the Friends of the Earth media team on 020 7566 1649.

Published by Friends of the Earth Trust