Akiko Hart takes over from Martha Spurrier as permanent Director of Liberty

Martha Spurrier has announced she will be moving on from Liberty. Akiko Hart, Intermin Director since April 2023, will take on the role permanently with immediate affect.

Martha Spurrier said:

“Deciding to leave my dream job hasn’t been easy. After seven incredible years, I will miss it more than I can put into words. But I’m a real believer in not doing anything for too long, both for myself and for everyone else, and it’s time for a change.

“From the Brexit referendum, making the case for human rights and proper support for everyone during a pandemic, holding five different Prime Ministers to account, setting up our brand new and now award-winning investigative journalism unit Liberty Investigates, record numbers of members and saving the Human Rights Act. And so much more! I was never bored, and I was always inspired by the passion and engagement from our supporters. It has been a privilege.

I have no doubt Liberty will go from strength to strength, and I’ll be cheering it on every step of the way.”

Tara Lai Quinlan, Chair of the Board of Trustees, Liberty said:

“The board extends an enormous thank you to Martha for her wonderful work at Liberty over the past seven years. Martha has been an incredible leader for the organisation and under her leadership we have seen Liberty taken to new heights. We look forward to hearing what you do next Martha and you will be massively missed.

After in-depth discussion and careful consideration, the board has made the decision to offer the permanent Director role to Akiko Hart. We have been impressed with and very appreciative of Akiko’s strategic vision and are excited to see where she takes Liberty in its next phase.”

Akiko Hart said:

“On a personal level, I feel incredibly humbled and excited about what’s next. Having been at Liberty for 6 months, I understand the challenges facing us over the coming years.

“Our right to protest remains under constant attack. Surveillance and police powers are being expanded. Human rights are being politicised and weaponised for cheap media points and the rule of law and the principles of our constitution are being undermined and in danger of being eroded.

“However, with challenges come opportunities and the ability to stand up for what is right alongside many others, and to make and remake the case for human rights for everyone, by using all the tools at Liberty’s disposal to fight for a better society.

Liberty is needed more than ever as we continue to challenge unjust laws, promote human rights, and protect civil liberties.”