Entrepreneur and recruiter James Caan has been appointed chairman of The Big Issue magazine.

Caan is charged with helping increasing the magazine’s online exposure and stimulating corporate giving through subscriptions or donations to The Big Issue magazine.

Caan said: “Working on a self-employed basis and taking control of your earnings allows people to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness. It doesn’t matter what language you speak or what culture you’re from - a desire to earn a legitimate living and integrate back into mainstream society is something that is universally felt.”

John Bird, The Big Issue’s founder and editor-in-chief, adds: “James is one of UK business’ leading lights so I have no doubt that he’ll be a fantastic addition to our board.”