Do you have the skills to lead the largest locally-based mental health charity in the Highlands?
Centred Scotland is looking for a new Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation into its next phase of development.
After more than nine years with the charity, David Brookfield is stepping down from the post later this year. He joined the former Birchwood Highland in 2017 as office manager and was soon promoted to finance manager, and later CEO.
During his time in the role, Mr. Brookfield has led a number of key developments, including establishing the Highlands’ first Discovery College in Inverness, and later Wick.
Under his leadership the charity has grown its Caithness service by over £1 million in turnover. He also initiated the purchase and development of the Wellington Centre in Wick. Overall, the organisation, which provides a range of services across the region, has grown by £3 million in turnover, with staff numbers increasing from 126 to 176 and service users rising by 200 during his time as CEO.
Mr. Brookfield said in leaving the position he aims to achieve a better work-life balance.
He added, “While the sector is undoubtedly challenging, it is also incredibly rewarding, offering real opportunities to make a meaningful difference to the lives of people across the Highlands. This is an exciting period for the organisation, with funding anticipated for further developments at the Wellington Centre and the Invergordon employability centre, both of which have ambitious plans for social enterprise and partnership working.”
The role will be advertised from next month, with the hope of a new CEO being in place by late summer or early autumn.
Centred says the successful candidate must combine strong financial acumen with deep understanding of the third sector, particularly within commissioned health and social care services, and be dedicated to helping people.
Key responsibilities include providing clear strategic leadership, ensuring the charity’s long-term sustainability, and overseeing financial planning, budgeting and performance.
Mr. Brookfield outlined the qualities his successor will need to bring to the role.
He said, “Given the financial challenges facing the sector, it is essential to recognise the need for strong financial understanding, alongside an appreciation of the pressures within the third sector and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of others.”