Variety, the Children’s Charity is delighted to announce the appointment of Andrew Carnie, Chief Executive Officer of Soho House & Co, as Chair-Elect. Andrew will assume the role of Chairman on 1st January 2026, succeeding Professor Jonathan Shalit OBE, who will step down at the end of his term on 31st December 2025, alongside Co-Chair Tushar Prabhu. 

Andrew brings a wealth of experience in leading globally renowned brands which aligns perfectly with Variety’s aim to expand its reach and impact supporting disabled and disadvantaged children in the U.K. As CEO of Soho House, he has maintained the brand’s heritage, exclusivity and cultural relevance while driving exponential growth in 22 countries including new markets such as Latin America and South-East Asia. Prior to Soho House, Andrew was Global President of Anthropologie where he was instrumental in driving the digital transformation of the business, while delivering an immersive luxury shopping experience online and instore. 

Beyond his business achievements, Andrew has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to supporting disadvantaged young people through his previous charity role as a Trustee of Centrepoint, where he has tirelessly fundraised through ultra-endurance events including expeditions to the North and South Poles. Andrew’s passion for creating opportunities for vulnerable children makes him an ideal Chair for Variety’s mission. 

Andrew Carnie commented:

“I am deeply honoured to join Variety at such a meaningful moment in its 75-year history. The opportunity to contribute to a mission that uplifts and empowers children facing incredible challenges is profoundly moving. Variety’s work touches lives in the most tangible ways – from wheelchairs and Sunshine Coaches that offer freedom and access, to special experiences that create lasting joy. For so many children and families across the U.K. who face daily hardship, this kind of support isn’t just helpful – it’s life-changing. I’m truly inspired to help grow this vital mission and ensure even more young people are given the chance to thrive.” 

Variety’s Board of Trustees and staff team wishes to express their profound gratitude to Professor Jonathan Shalit OBE for his exceptional leadership and dedication during his tenure as Chairman. Under Jonathan’s guidance, the charity has strengthened its position as a leading children’s charity, reaching over 160,000 children and young people in 2024 alone. The Board also extends its heartfelt thanks to Tushar Prabhu for his invaluable service as Co-Chair, recognising his significant contribution to the charity’s strategic development and growth. 

Professor Jonathan Shalit OBE, outgoing Chairman, said:

“It has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve as Chairman of Variety. I’m delighted to hand over the reins of a thriving and ambitious charity to Andrew. His proven track record in building successful organisations, combined with his genuine passion for supporting young people makes him the perfect leader to guide Variety into its next chapter. I have complete confidence that under Andrew’s leadership, working alongside our new CEO, Laurence Guinness and the exceptional team, Variety will continue to transform even more young lives.”