Danny Curtin appointed as AoC's new Chair

Ruth and Danny

Current trustee Danny Curtin has been appointed as our new Chair. He will replace our current Chair Ruth Lesirge from September 2019.

Ruth Lesirge

Ruth will continue as an active adviser and volunteer, helping with the delivery of the Association’s training and guidance, developing new AoC resources and workshops, and championing the role of the Chair. To reflect Ruth’s unique contribution and her continuing role, she will be given the title of Honorary President.

Ruth who co-founded the Association with the now CEO Ros Oakley, said: “As I look at the Association now, I see that it has become something far more than one woman’s obsession. It’s something we have grown together, involving many people. Our membership of over 600 and our wider engagement have proved that the Association is valued. It has found its place in the sector. So now, after four years as Chair, it felt the right time to pass on the baton and allow me to focus on helping increase further our networks, our insights and our resources for Chairs.

"I am delighted Danny has been appointed as our new Chair. I think he will bring a thoughtful and inclusive approach to board leadership.”

“We have a number of key programmes which are generously supported by funders and volunteers. These give new Chairs in particular access to support to build their skills and knowledge. However, there is lots more we can do. There are many other ways we can grow as part of the next stage of the Association’s journey.”

Danny Curtin

Danny joined the board four years ago and has been a very active trustee, volunteer and mentor, involved in particular in the Association’s strategic planning, and supporting the growth and development of its executive team.

He first became a trustee in his twenties. He has founded and chaired a youth charity and been CEO of a second youth charity and a social enterprise. He ran his first marathon for charity this year and turned 40 last month.

Danny said: “I am delighted to have been appointed. I appreciate the confidence that this very experienced board has shown in me. The Association has been massively important to me. Five years ago, still in my mid-thirties I was a new Chair and in joining the AoC I found the support and expertise I needed. I look forward to playing my part, as Chair, in helping to contribute to the next phase of our growth.”

“We are very grateful to Ruth, our outgoing Chair. The Association of Chairs would not exist without her. AoC was her idea. Throughout our brief history Ruth has brought vision, tenacity and hard work and inspired others to get involved. I am honoured to succeed her.”

AoC's board

Following our recent recruitment process, we will be welcoming new trustees to our board in the Autumn. [Update - they are now listed on the website. Meet our board.] 

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