The National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) has appointed a new chief executive as Purnima Tanuku moves into the position of executive chair.

NDNA’s Board of Trustees has appointed Tim McLachlan, former chief executive of the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST), to take over as chief executive from 31 March.

In her role as executive chair, Tanuku will lead NDNA’s strategic work, including managing key external relationships with ministers, senior officials and policy work across the UK.

McLachlan has previously worked as chief executive of The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation, which drove the implementation of Natasha’s Law on food allergies in 2021.

“This is an absolutely crucial time for the early years sector across the UK,” said Tanuku.

“We have seen unprecedented demand in delivering growing funded childcare commitments, while ensuring settings can remain sustainable and deliver the high-quality early education we all want to see.”

She added: “I am delighted to be welcoming Tim to NDNA as he has the drive and commitment to take the organisation forward as we continue to grow our support to the sector and I am really pleased to be working with him as he takes on this role.”

“I want to see a world where all children can have better life chances through accessing high-quality early education and care,” added McLachlan.

“To achieve that we need strong and sustainable providers of all shapes and sizes, who are thriving, not just surviving.”

Sarah Steel, NDNA’s chair of trustees, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Tim to NDNA at this important time for our sector and us as a charity. He has an impressive record of leading innovative institutions and charities that have made hugely important contributions.

“Giving children the best start in life has always been our ambition, reflected in the work our members do. We will continue to provide a strong voice for early years providers while following through on our ambitions to support the professionals working in our sector.

“I am delighted that Purnima will continue to support Tim and the work of NDNA as our executive chair, to carry on advocating for our amazing sector and the people working in it.”