The chief executive of Migrant Help will chair the panel of judges for this year’s Third Sector Awards. 

Caroline O’Connor, who was named Charity Chief Executive of the Year at last year’s Third Sector Awards, will take up the position for 2025. 

The awards, which celebrate the work of charities and the difference they make to society, opened for entries last month. 

There are 35 categories rewarding sector partnerships, individual talent and organisational excellence. 

O’Connor, who joined Migrant Help in 2017 as chief operating officer and became chief executive in 2020, said: “I am absolutely delighted to be given the opportunity to be the chair of judges for the Third Sector Awards 2025.

“These prestigious awards celebrate outstanding achievements within our sector and shine a light on the remarkable contribution these organisations make to society. 

“The third sector is full of gifted and committed people who choose to give their formidable skills to the people and causes that need them most. I am thrilled to play a part in honouring that talent.”

The awards continue to include a scheme to spotlight the successes of small, micro, local and ethnic minority-led charities by offering one free-entry place to 15 charities with an annual income of less than £100,000.

The deadline for eligible charities to register interest for an entry through this scheme is 19 March. Interested charities are invited to complete this form.

Successful small and micro charity entrants will be invited to attend a free workshop hosted by Third Sector, which will include practical advice and guidance on submitting a winning entry.

The 2025 Third Sector Awards are sponsored by the insurance company Ansvar.

The early-bird deadline for reduced rate entry is 1 May and the awards ceremony will take place in central London in September. 

The entry kit can be downloaded here.