Most read leadership diaries of 2021

There's no point in denying it, we’re all nosy to some degree. To satiate some of your curiosity, we regularly publish leadership diaries describing a week in the life of a charity CEO. Below are some of the most read of 2021.

Leadership diaries: A charity CEO on leading an observatory through uncertainty

Nestled in the Kielder Water and Forest Park in Northumberland, Kielder Observatory is in the largest gold tier- protected dark sky park in Europe, hosting public events seven days a week. The charity’s CEO, Catherine Johns documents a week behind the scenes of leading the charity into a position of being able to open to the public.

Leadership diaries: "I am reminded that the pandemic is not the only risk we face"

David Ellis is the chief executive of National Star, a national charity that provides education support and care for young people and adults with complex disabilities and learning difficulties. He records a week of leading the charity which has stayed fully open throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

Leadership diaries: “The pandemic has created opportunities for us to work closely with other organisations”

Sonya Chowdhury is the chief executive of action for M.E. She chronicles a working week leading the Charity, which has Seen demand for its services increase during the coronavirus pandemic.

Leadership diaries: The days spent with the crew are vital to my role as CEO

David Welch, CEO of Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) and winner of the Charity Times Charity Leader of the Year Award 2021, describes his working week.

Leadership diaries: “Our governance needs to be stronger than ever”

Elham Fardad is the CEO of Migrant Leaders, a charity supporting young migrants in the UK. She documents a week in her working life as she finds much-needed energy to navigate unexpected challenges.

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Video Q&A: In conversation with Vicki Sellick MBE, CEO of Good Things Foundation
Vicki Sellick MBE, CEO of Good Things Foundation joins Charity Times editor, Lauren Weymouth to discuss her leadership journey, the organisation’s new strategy and the findings of the Digital Nation 2026 report. She explores the challenges of digital inclusion, the opportunities and risks of AI, and how the sector can ensure nobody is left behind.

Video Q&A: Benefits of bespoke investment vs pooled funds for the third sector
In this Charity Times video Q&A, editor Lauren Weymouth speaks to Ed Caswell of RBC Brewin Dolphin to explore how charities can align investment strategies with their mission, balance income and growth, and adapt to changing needs. He discusses discretionary management, responsible investment and the importance of effective governance and regular portfolio reviews.

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