Islamic Relief Worldwide has announced the appointment of Nadeem Malik as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective from October 2025.
Mr Malik, who currently serves as Managing Director of the Humanitarian Academy for Development (HAD), will take on the role following the departure of current CEO Waseem Ahmad, whose term ends in September.
The appointment comes as the charity’s Board of Trustees continues its search for a permanent chief executive to lead the global humanitarian organisation.
Mr Malik said he was looking forward to guiding Islamic Relief during the transition:
“I look forward to working with my fellow Directors and all Islamic Relief staff to continue serving our rightsholders with excellence. With my colleagues I aim to oversee an orderly transition of the organisation into the capable hands of the new CEO. During this time I will continue in my role as Managing Director of the Humanitarian Academy for Development.”
Haroun Atallah, Chair of the Board of Trustees, said Mr Malik’s leadership and sector expertise would be invaluable: “Nadeem brings valuable experience in organisational leadership and development that will serve Islamic Relief well during this transition period. His commitment to strengthening civil society organisations and deep understanding of our sector make him ideally placed to maintain our momentum whilst we complete the appointment of our new CEO.”
Outgoing CEO Waseem Ahmad expressed his confidence in the appointment: “I have every confidence that Nadeem will provide the steady leadership Islamic Relief needs during this transition. His experience and values align perfectly with our organisation’s mission, and I know our incredible team will continue to deliver life-saving work under his guidance. I remain committed to supporting Islamic Relief as we move into this exciting new chapter.”
Mr Ahmad will continue to support the Trustees, the interim CEO and the future CEO throughout the transition.
Founded in 1984, Islamic Relief Worldwide is now one of the largest Muslim humanitarian organisations. Last year, it supported 17 million people in more than 40 countries affected by poverty, conflict and disasters.
