An LGBTQ campaign group has named its first executive director.

Tiffany Paynter started in the role at OutBermuda this week.

The charity said: “A social entrepreneur and longtime advocate for the local LGBTQ+ community, Ms Paynter joins OutBermuda following five years as community centre manager for the Department of Youth, Sport and Recreation.

“Ms Paynter is also well known island-wide as a yoga teacher, spoken-word poet and volunteer for organisations including Spirit House Bermuda and the Family Centre.

“As OutBermuda’s first executive director, Ms Paynter will oversee the group’s growth and evolution, leading day-to-day operations and longer-term strategy, including increasing volunteer and education programmes to boost the community outreach part of its work.

“She’ll also be responsible for relationships with government bodies and the business world.”

Ms Paynter said she was excited to join the organisation "at such an important time for LGBTQ+ equality”.

She said: “I look forward to working closely with the board and with our local community to establish priorities and drive momentum toward our goals.”

Adrian Hartnett-Beasley, of OutBermuda, highlighted that the appointment represented a new chapter for the charity.

He said: “We have such an opportunity to make a real impact, but couldn’t do so solely as a volunteer-led organisation.

“We welcome Tiffany, and know she’s just the leader we need as we look to the future.”

OutBermuda announced this week that it has taken over supervision and management of Bermuda Pride, now in its fourth year.

The charity said it can fund the executive director post for the next three years thanks to a recent grant.