Amnesty International UK today announces that Chief Executive Sacha Deshmukh will step down from his role at the end of 2025, after five years at the helm of the UK section of the global human rights movement. 

Deshmukh was appointed interim Chief Executive in May 2021 before taking on the role permanently in 2022.  

Sacha Deshmukh said:  

“Leading Amnesty International UK has been a huge honour. I first supported Amnesty as a teenager, and the chance to serve as its Chief Executive has been both humbling and inspiring. After nearly 20 years in CEO roles and five deeply rewarding years at Amnesty, this feels like the right moment for a new challenge for me, and to pass the baton here at Amnesty. I love this organisation and will remain a passionate supporter. 

“Amnesty’s mission is more urgent than ever, and I’m proud of the progress we’ve made. Over the coming months, I remain fully committed to ensuring a smooth and successful leadership transition.” 

Helen Horton, Chair of the Amnesty International UK board said:

"As Chair of the Amnesty International UK board, I extend my sincere gratitude to Sacha Deshmukh for his unwavering dedication, and exceptional leadership at Amnesty International UK. His commitment to defending human rights and empowering voices in the pursuit of justice has inspired us all. It has been a great pleasure and an honour to have worked with Sacha and I wish him well for the future. Thank you, Sacha, for your tireless efforts and for guiding our organisation with strategic vision and integrity."

About Sacha Deshmukh 

Sacha Deshmukh has spent his career leading high-impact organisations across human rights, international development, public policy and business. before joining Amnesty International UK as Chief Executive in 2021. 

In addition to his executive roles, Deshmukh has served in a number of governance positions, including as Chair of War Child UK and Citizens Advice England & Wales, and as a non-executive director of the Fundraising Regulator.

A recruitment process for a new Amnesty International UK Chief Executive will begin shortly.