Your weekly roundup of appointments happening across the charity sector.
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YMCA Derbyshire

The group chief executive of YMCA Thames Gateway Group for the last two years Matt Jones is to move within the charity’s federation to lead YMCA Derbyshire.

He joins YMCA Derbyshire in November when its current CEO Gillian Sewell steps down.

“YMCA Derbyshire is a role model for the rest of the federation because it has grown its provision to meet young people’s more complex needs, well beyond putting a roof over their heads," said Jones.

“That’s down to what Gillian and her team have built over the years in Derbyshire, and I’m very excited about taking over and continuing that work.”

YMCA Derbyshire’s chair Julian Smith added: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Matt as the next Chief Executive of YMCA Derbyshire and are looking forward to supporting him as he begins this next chapter with us.

“Throughout the recruitment process, he demonstrated not only considerable leadership experience and a strong understanding of the YMCA movement, but also a genuine passion for improving the lives of young people and strengthening communities.”

Ark

Education charity Ark has promoted its director of ventures Katie Oliver to chief executive.

Her appointment comes as the wider Ark group looks to appoint two CEOs to replace Lucy Heller, who is stepping down at the end of August after leading the education charity for 22 years.

While Oliver will lead Ark’s education charity, its multi-academy trust (MAT) will be lead by Patrick Wall. Both start in September.

“The appointment of two CEOs reflects the scale and ambition of both the charity and the MAT, said Ian Wave, who chairs Ark’s board.

“Katie Oliver is an established leader with deep organisational knowledge, a passion for equitable education, and a relentless drive for meaningful system change. We are confident that, working together, Katie and Patrick will build on Lucy’s incredible legacy.”

Safe Haven for Donkeys

Animal welfare charity Safe Haven for Donkeys has appointed Niall Duffy as its next chief executive.

He is a former director of external affairs at the Independent Press Standards Organisation, and at the International Air & Space Training Institute, and until June was executive director of policy and profile at Devon based The Donkey Sanctuary.

Duffy joins in October when he will work alongside current CEO Andy Foxcroft, who is retiring at the end of the year.

The West Sussex headquartered charity provides support to abandoned donkeys across Israel, the West Bank, Gaza and Egypt.

“I have long admired the charity’s practical hands-on support for some of the world’s most vulnerable animals and the communities who rely on them,” said Duffy.

“Safe Haven doesn’t just talk about equine welfare, it delivers on the ground, and it is a privilege to join such an impressive team.”

Haemochromatosis UK

Health charity Haemochromatosis UK’s interim chief executive Jonathan Jelley has been appointed to the role on a permanent basis.

He has been leading the charity since August last year and previously had senior roles in the banking sector, with NatWest and Royal Bank of Scotland.

“Jonathan brings a wealth of leadership experience from across the charitable, public and private sectors,” said the charity.

“His strategic insight, calm and confident leadership style, and deep commitment to public service have delivered measurable impact throughout his career and have already made a significant difference here, at Haemochromatosis UK.”

Nottingham CVS

Nottingham CVS deputy chief executive Laura Armitage has been promoted to CEO, replacing Jules Sebelin, who is moving to a part time role as strategic executive advisor.

Armitage joined the infrastructure body last year as deputy CEO and previously worked in its Green Space and Travel Well Social Prescribing programmes.

"I am incredibly proud to be taking on the role of CEO at NCVS, said Armitage.

“This organisation has a strong legacy of supporting Nottingham's communities, and VCSE organisations and I am excited about the opportunities ahead.

“My focus will be on building on the excellent work already underway, maintaining strong relationships with our partners, and ensuring NCVS continues to adapt and innovate in response to the changing needs of the sector and the city.

“I look forward to working with colleagues, trustees, and partners to shape the next chapter of NCVS together.”

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