NCMA chair Susanna Dawson said Dame Gillian would bring a wealth ofexperience to the role. She said, 'She has been hugely influential inimproving understanding and raising the profile of children's issues andin shaping the services on offer to families.'
Dame Gillian said she looked forward to her new role. 'I was honoured toaccept the position of president because I am passionate about itsvision, that every child should reach their full potential.'
Previously chief executive of Coram Family, Dame Gillian has also workedat the National Children's Bureau, and advised governments over the past30 years on family policy. She is visiting professor at the Institute ofEducation, and was a founder member of Parenting UK. She received theDBE in 2005 for services to children and families. She replaces DrPenelope Leach, who stands down in March 2009.