Victims’ Commissioner welcomes new CEO

The Victims’ Commissioner, Claire Waxman OBE, is pleased to announce the appointment of the new Chief Executive Officer for the Office of the Victims’ Commissioner, following a competitive open recruitment process. 

Susannah joins the Office of the Victims’ Commissioner with extensive leadership experience across criminal justice, emergency services and victims’ services. She previously served as CEO of the National Fire Chiefs Council and as CEO at the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, working closely with partners across emergency services, criminal justice, and victim-focused organisations to drive forward public service transformation.  

She is currently a member of the Youth Justice Board, with lead responsibility for victims. 

Susannah originally trained and worked as a probation officer in south London, specialising in youth justice. She later became Head of London at the Youth Justice Board, before moving on to become Assistant Chief Executive at the charity Victim Support, where she led national work on partnerships, performance and strategy, working closely with local and national victims service organisations. It was in this role that she developed her passion for and commitment to championing the voices of victims and ensuring their needs remain at the heart of policy and practice. 

Victims’ Commissioner Claire Waxman OBE said: 

“I am very pleased to welcome Susannah Hancock as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Office of the Victims’ Commissioner. Susannah joins us at an important moment and has a wealth of experience working in criminal justice. Throughout her career she has developed a deep understanding of the challenges victims face – this makes her an ideal candidate for this role.

Her proven track record in advocating for victims’ rights will help ensure that the voices and lived experiences of survivors remain central to our work. Under her leadership, we will continue to strengthen the connection between policy and the needs of those navigating the justice system.

I look forward to working closely with her as we continue striving for a justice system that better serves and protects victims.” 

Susannah Hancock said: 

“I am delighted to take up the role of CEO at the Office of the Victims’ Commissioner at a pivotal time for our justice system.

Throughout my career, I have seen both the impact of crime and the challenges survivors face when seeking justice. My focus has been on ensuring that those harmed by crime are listened to and their needs properly understood.

I look forward to supporting Claire in bridging the gap between policy and practice, and contributing to the drive to ensure victims are placed at the centre of a fair and effective justice system.”