A CHARITY that works with young people has made an internal appointment for its new interim chief executive.
Sarah Emery is to head up Berkshire Youth following the departure of David Seward after 22 years. He stays on in a consultancy role to help the organisation’s plans for future growth programmes.
A spokesperson for the charity said they were delighted about this arrangement, and praised his work in overseeing “immeasurable changes” in youth work and support for young people during his tenure.
This has included the demise of the County Council, austerity and covid.
Earlier this month, he oversaw the grand opening of its new base in Newbury, the Waterside Centre.
And Berkshire Youth has been working with the National Youth Agency and The Berkeley Foundation to identify a long-term plan in response to the huge growth and demand to support young people.
Mr Seward is passing the day-to-day management of Berkshire Youth to Ms Emery to build on the work of this review, ultimately creating a new strategy for its work.
Roger Smee, President and Chairman of Berkshire Youth, said: “On behalf of all the Trustees, I would like to thank David for his 22 years at Berkshire Youth, supporting our communities, young people and the wider conversation about the importance of youth work. We are delighted to retain his talent in the organisation whilst we review our future strategy and search for a permanent replacement.
“Our thanks to Sarah Emery who will lead the organisation on an interim basis.”
A celebration of Mr Seward’s work will be held on Friday, December 9. This is open to the charity’s partners.
To attend, email: admin@berkshireyouth.co.uk
