Kids appoints Mark Devlin as new Chair of the Board
Kids today announced the appointment of Mark Devlin as the new Chair of its Board of Trustees. Mark succeeds Sam Bowerman, who has served as Interim Chair since July 2025 and will remain on the Board, resuming her position as Vice Chair.
Published: 30 Jan 2026
Mark brings extensive experience in senior leadership roles across the public and charity sectors, including serving as Chief Executive of Young Epilepsy and Chief Operating Officer at Unicef UK. He also holds significant Board roles, currently serving as Chair of St-Martin-in-the-Fields Charity and the Froebel Trust, and has previously held trusteeships with the Royal College of Paediatrics & Child Health and other charities working with children and young people.
In his new role, Mark will help guide the charity’s strategic direction and support its mission to create a world where all kinds of kids have all kinds of opportunities.
Commenting on his appointment, Mark Devlin said:
“I am delighted to be taking on the role of Chair at a critical time when disabled children and their families are facing major changes to government systems and support. Kids has an ambitious vision of a society where disabled children and their families enjoy equal rights and opportunities. I share the team’s determination to involve young people every step of the way in shaping their futures, and I am excited to work with the Board and staff to champion children’s and families’ voices as we shape Kids’ new strategy.”
Katie Ghose, CEO, added:
“We’re thrilled to welcome Mark, whose experience will be invaluable as we complete our current strategy in 2026 and look ahead to Kids’ future. His leadership comes at a pivotal moment, as we deepen our commitment to a truly young person‑centred approach – strengthening youth engagement and participation in our governance and growing a national youth voice network. Mark’s passion for championing the rights and voices of disabled children, young people and their families aligns perfectly with Kids’ mission and values, and we’re excited to work with him to drive the next phase of our impact.”
Kids thanks Sam Bowerman for her leadership and contribution during her tenure as Interim Chair. In handing over to Mark, Sam said: “It has been a privilege to serve as Interim Chair of Kids and to work alongside such a passionate and dedicated team. I’m delighted to continue as Vice Chair, supporting Mark and helping to ensure a smooth transition into this next chapter for Kids.”