Sir Peter Wanless

Peter Wanless is an experienced leader based in Somerset who now works as a Chair and consultant adviser.

Between 2013 and 2024 he was the Chief Executive of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) one of the UK’s oldest and best known charities which exists to fight for every childhood. The NSPCC delivers services, generates knowledge and campaigns:

to prevent child abuse and neglect;

to protect children from abuse and neglect; and

to transform attitudes, behaviours and laws to give all children the safety and start in life they deserve.

Between 2008-2013 Peter was Chief Executive of the Big Lottery Fund, distributing £700m a year in good cause grants to charities and community groups.

He had previously spent ten years with the Department for Education, specialising in schools’ reform. Between 1998 and 2003 he was the Department’s Director of Strategy and Communications.

Between 1987 and 1998 Peter worked at the Treasury, operating in a range of roles including Head of Private Finance Policy and Principal Private Secretary to three Cabinet Ministers.

Peter read International History and Politics at Leeds University before joining the Civil Service.

Peter was educated at his local comprehensive school in Chippenham, (Sheldon School) where his father taught music.

Peter was awarded his knighthood in the 2021 New Year’s Honours List for services to children and charities.

He now lives in Somerset where he is President of the County Cricket team. He also Chairs the 5Rights Foundation, global leaders in advocating for children’s rights on line as well as acting as an independent safeguarding adviser to Nord Anglia Education who run schools throughout the world.