You never quite know what’s around the corner

Debbie Ladds is stepping down as chief executive at Local Trust.

A message from Debbie Ladds, chief executive

Summer 2010 was much like any other: sunny at times and rainy at others; but one thing makes it stand out – the National Lottery Community Fund announced the first 50 Big Local areas and my life changed because I started my Big Local journey.

And now, in summer 2016 my life is changing again, because as many of you know, I am standing down as chief executive of Local Trust. Due to personal commitments I now need to work less and being the chief executive at Local Trust is a ‘full on’ role. Although my last day will be 19 August I am personally committed to the resident-led, community development approach we’ve fostered and I look forward to seeing what it achieves in future.

Being the chief executive at Local Trust is a fantastic job and I have found the role stimulating, enjoyable and stretching. It has been a privilege to create something new (both Big Local and Local Trust) and to work with fantastic groups of people, locally and nationally. I am proud of what we have achieved and I know there’s still much more to come – for Big Local as thousands of residents make a difference to the things that matter most to them, supported by those they trust. And of course, Local Trust now has a new, developing role in championing communities to advance, advocate and promote community development.

The energy, friendship and commitment for Big Local over the past six years has been fantastic. And I am sure my successor will enjoy the role: the challenge, inspiration and friendship it brings. Trustees are beginning the recruitment process soon and the job details will be posted on our website; so do take a look and pass it onto anyone you think might be suitable for the role.

Finally, my thanks and best wishes to all of you – hopefully we’ll meet again to celebrate all that is Local Trust and Big Local.

With best wishes
Debbie

Debbie Ladds
Chief executive