THAMES Hospice has extended its thanks to outgoing Chair of Trustees Chris Aitken, who has stepped down from the role after more than a decade of service to the charity.
He joined the board of trustees December 2012 and has spent 13 years supporting Thames Hospice through periods of growth, challenge and transformation.
After serving as Chair of the Income Generation and Marketing Committee for five years, he was appointed Chair of Trustees in September 2022.
The charity says that during his tenure, Chris played a pivotal role in guiding Thames Hospice through significant organisational change, including the expansion of services, growth in income generation activity, strengthened governance, post-COVID recovery, and the wider financial and workforce pressures facing the hospice sector.
He has been commended for going “above and beyond” in the role, warmth, sincerity and pride in representing the organisation, and has been a passionate champion of fundraising, community engagement and partnership working.
Thames Hospice also extended their recognition of the support of his wife, Linda.
Katharine Horler has now taken on the role of Chair of Trustees, and Mr Aitken will continue to serve as a trustee until the end of December, when he will take on a new role as an ambassador for the hospice.
Katharine Horler, Chair of Trustees, said: “On behalf of the Board, Executive Team, our staff, volunteers and the wider community, I would like to thank Chris for his remarkable dedication and the lasting impact he has made over the past 13 years.
“His calm leadership, integrity and unwavering focus on our mission have helped leave Thames Hospice stronger, more resilient and well placed for the future.
“As I take on the role of Chair, I am grateful for the legacy Chris leaves and the strength of the organisation he has helped to shape.
“I look forward to working with the Board, our colleagues and supporters to build on this legacy, as we continue to strengthen our services, support our communities and ensure Thames Hospice is here for everyone who needs us, now and in the years to come.”
