International Christian Concern has appointed Shawn Wright as its next president, the organization announced today (Oct. 1).

Wright, a veteran of international ministry and humanitarian work, will succeed Jeff King, who is retiring after leading the Washington-based nonprofit for more than 20 years. He begins his new role Oct. 31.

ICC’s board said the transition comes at a pivotal time as persecution of Christians increases in many regions. Founded in 1995, the organization works in more than 40 countries through aid, advocacy and awareness programs.

“As the third president in ICC’s history, Shawn will carry forward a legacy of support for persecuted believers,” board chair Ed Wormald said in a statement. “We were impressed with his vision to counter persecution and continue to be a respected voice advocating for them.”

Wright previously served as president of PAK7 US, a Christian media ministry supporting young Pakistani Christians. He also worked as East regional director of Elam Ministries, which focuses on supporting Christians in Iran, and held leadership positions at the nonprofit Growing Leaders and in the private sector. A U.S. Air Force veteran, Wright holds degrees in management studies and business administration from the University of Maryland Global Campus.

“I am humbled to follow in Jeff’s footsteps and honored by the trust placed in me by the board,” Wright said. “ICC has built an extraordinary legacy of aid and advocacy for the persecuted Church. I look forward to working with this talented and dedicated team.”

King, who became ICC’s second president in 2002, helped expand its global staff to more than 50 and oversaw projects ranging from emergency relief and education to small business support. He also led the group in producing daily news briefs, policy reports and its annual Global Persecution Index.

“Leading ICC has been the honor of a lifetime,” King said. “ICC’s mission has never been about one person—it’s about a global movement of Christians who refuse to let their brothers and sisters suffer in silence.”

International Christian Concern was established as an offshoot of Christian Solidarity International in 1995 and became an independent organization dedicated to aiding and advocating for persecuted Christians worldwide.