Statement from Action For Humanity — Monday, 24th August 2026

Action For Humanity today announced that its Global Chief Executive Officer, Othman Moqbel, will step down from his role on 1 September 2026, following eight years of exceptional leadership and organisational growth.

Since joining Action For Humanity in 2018, Othman has played a pivotal role in transforming the organisation into a globally recognised humanitarian charity, rebranding the organisation from Syria Relief, the leading Syria-focused NGO in the UK, to an international powerhouse in the delivery of aid and development. Under his leadership, Action For Humanity has significantly expanded its reach, strengthened its operational capacity, increased its income and impact, and delivered life-changing support to millions of people affected by conflict, disaster and poverty around the world.

The Board of Trustees has expressed its deep gratitude for Othman's outstanding service and lasting contribution to the organisation's mission. 

Dr Mounir Hakimi, Chairman of Action For Humanity 

"Othman has led Action For Humanity through a period of remarkable growth and transformation. His commitment to humanitarian principles, organisational excellence and the people we serve has helped establish Action For Humanity as a leading international charity. On behalf of the Board, our staff, supporters and partners, I would like to thank him for his extraordinary service and wish him every success in the next chapter of his journey." 

To ensure a smooth transition, Othman will continue to support the organisation over a six-month handover period, working closely with the Board and senior leadership team. 

The Board has appointed Wassim Khmaja as Acting Chief Executive Officer, effective from 1 September 2026, while the process of recruiting a permanent CEO is undertaken. 

Wassim is a highly respected member of Action For Humanity's leadership team and brings extensive humanitarian, operational and strategic experience to the role. Having played a key part in the organisation's development in recent years, he has the full confidence and support of the Board, leadership team and staff. 

Dr Hakimi adds:

"We are delighted that Wassim will lead Action For Humanity through this important period. He is a trusted and experienced leader who understands our mission, our people and our ambitions for the future. The Board has complete confidence in his ability to guide the organisation successfully as we continue to grow our impact around the world." 

Commenting on his decision, Othman Moqbel said: 

"Action For Humanity has been the privilege of my professional life. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together and grateful to our staff, supporters, partners and communities for their trust and commitment. The organisation is stronger than ever, and I am confident that its future is exceptionally bright. While I am stepping down as CEO, I hope to remain a friend and supporter of Action For Humanity and look forward to continuing our relationship in different ways in the years ahead."

“Following eight years at the organisation, I believe it is best for all parties – in order to foster new ideas in a changing landscape for Action For Humanity, and for myself to grow further as a leader – that we have a transition in leadership. I warmly welcome the thanks offered to be my the trustees and colleagues. Whilst I may not be Action For Humanity’s Global CEO for much longer – I will always be a supporter of the incredible life-changing and life-saving work the organisation continues to do." 

Action For Humanity emphasised that this transition reflects the natural evolution of a strong and growing organisation. The charity remains financially robust, operationally strong and focused on delivering humanitarian assistance and long-term development programmes across the communities it serves. 

With an experienced leadership team, dedicated staff and supporters worldwide, Action For Humanity is entering an exciting new chapter, one that builds on the strong foundations established over recent years while embracing new opportunities to expand its impact and deepen its service to vulnerable communities around the world.