New SEC boss beat 'high-level, commercial' applicants for the job

The newly appointed CEO of the Social Enterprise Coalition beat strong applicants from the private and financial sectors for the job, it has been revealed.

Steve Wyler, director of the Development Trusts Association, who was on the panel that decided Sunlight boss Peter Holbrook was the person for the job, said the position attracted a range of applicants with 'strong, high-level, commercial backgrounds'.

Declining to name names, he said: 'We had top people from within the sector and outside it apply,' adding that it showed how supported and respected the coalition was.

'Peter was the strongest in comparison to these, including some from both the private and finance sector, and some of whom bridged these sectors with a foot in social enterprise. He's got entrepreneurial flare.'

Alastair Wilson, CEO of the School for Social Entrepreneurs, who was also on the panel, said he was thrilled Holbrook had made it through such a competitive process.

'We were amazed by the calibre of applicants and we had rich, rich pickings, but I am genuinely thrilled we have got Peter,' he said.

Holbrook also received praise and support from social enterprise leaders across the country.

Sally Reynolds, CEO of Social Firms UK, told Social Enterprise she was one of three in the shortlist for the job, but that she was 'delighted' Holbrook was chosen.

'He's an inspiration,' she said. 'Although a lot of people don't yet know Peter, they will. He's got first hand experience of trying new things within social enterprise.'

Allison Ogden-Newton, CEO of Social Enterprise London, said: 'With the nation's finances in turmoil and the future of public services open to the most searching questions for a generation, the coalition has a key role to play in ensuring that social enterprises continue to deliver on their outstanding potential. I look forward to working with Peter in supporting our social enterprises to remain at the cutting edge of the business movement.'

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• The Social Enterprise Coalition is looking for three new members for its board. Find out more.