Former chancellor Sir Sajid Javid is set to become the next chair of the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust (HMDT).
The former Conservative cabinet minister, who served in a number of key positions including communities secretary and health secretary during his 14 years in Parliament, stood down at July’s general election.
Reacting to his appointment, Sir Sajid said: “I am deeply honoured and humbled to be taking on the role of chair at the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust. This is a profound responsibility, and I am committed to ensuring that we continue to honour the memory of those who were murdered and educate future generations about the lessons of the Holocaust and other genocides. In a world where intolerance and hatred still persist, our work is more important than ever, and I look forward to contributing to this vital mission.”
He will succeed Laura Marks CBE, who is set to retire in July 2025 after nine years in the role.
During her leadership, HMDT has expanded within political, faith and civic sectors with the Royal Patronage of His Majesty The King.
Marks will remain as chair through the significant milestones of the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz and the 30th anniversary of the Genocide in Bosnia for HMD 2025 in January.
She told the JC: “It’s a privilege to serve as chair of HMDT and work alongside brave and thoughtful Holocaust and genocide survivors. Witnessing the transformative impact of our work on people from all walks of life has been deeply inspiring. While I will be stepping down as chair next year, my commitment to HMDT's cause will not diminish. I am delighted with the appointment of Sir Sajid as my successor and, after the important commemorations of 2025, am very pleased to pass the torch to such an outstanding individual. HMDT's future is in excellent hands.”
Until his appointment next year, Javid will join HMDT’s board as chair-elect.
HMDT Chief Executive Olivia Marks-Woldman OBE said she was “thrilled to welcome” Javid and looked forward “to working closely with him.”
She continued: “His expertise, connections and determination will drive us forward in realising our vision of building a better future, one in which the dignity of every human being is respected.
“We are enormously grateful to Laura for her nine years of dedication and leadership. She has set an immensely powerful example, and I’m proud of all we've accomplished together. Her passion and commitment to Holocaust and genocide education and remembrance have been instrumental in making Holocaust Memorial Day a national institution.”
