Karen Walker (pictured) will start the position at LEYF in London on 13 September.
As head of children's services, Ms Walker will ensure good practice is maintained throughout LEYF's nurseries and support staff. Her remit includes leading on LEYF's children's centres, supporting existing and new projects with nurseries' chefs, developing nursery projects and taking care of social enterprise and overseas projects.
Children's Place co-director Debbie Burke will take over the running of the nursery group, which has seven settings across West Yorkshire.
Ms Walker brings over 20 years of experience in the early years sector - as director of Children's Place and national policy director at the NDNA. She also has a Masters in Early Childhood Studies.
She said, 'I am excited about starting at LEYF, looking forward to building on its fantastic track record with Ofsted and its good reputation in the sector, making sure we really do hear children's voices and meet their needs.
'It is an exciting time for LEYF and I am ready to take what is a big step for me and be a part of its future success and impact.'
LEYF chief executive June O'Sullivan said, 'I am very pleased to welcome Karen to this role. I know she will be a great success in developing even higher standards across our family of nurseries, while ensuring we make the most of every opportunity to maximise occupancy, eliminate inefficiencies and build our reputation.'
