Cambridgeshire ACRE has appointed Hayley Neal as its new Chief Executive.
Hayley, who is currently Head of Development at the Countryside Regeneration Trust, will replace Kirsten Bennett, who announced earlier this year that she was stepping down from the charity after more than 25 years in the role.
Hayley has a BA in Business Management, an MA in Arts Management and is a certified member of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising. She has worked as a charity consultant helping community and heritage organisations to develop business and fundraising plans, writing large funding bids as part of the process. Hayley’s role at the Countryside Regeneration Trust has involved leading on fundraising, marketing and communications.
Commenting on the appointment, Chairperson, Annie Blair said:
“After a rigorous and competitive recruitment process, we are delighted to welcome Hayley as our new Chief Executive. The Board of trustees are confident that Cambridgeshire ACRE is in safe hands which will enable the organisation to continue to expand and build on the vital work and engagement that we do with rural communities in Cambridgeshire.”
“Cambridgeshire ACRE has built a solid and trusted reputation as the Charity that provides and delivers both action and support that meets today’s needs, as well as those of the future. Hayley’s knowledge and understanding of the rural communities is a unique asset alongside her passion, compassion, and commitment to those who work and live in the rural areas of the county. Working with our incredible team of staff, trustees, members, volunteers, stakeholders and funders, will enable her to fulfil the Chief Executive role and continue to build the standing that the organisation has, both locally and with other Rural Community Councils in England through the ACRE network.”
Hayley said:
“I am thrilled to join Cambridgeshire ACRE as Chief Executive, particularly during the occasion of its centenary year. This milestone not only represents a century of service and dedication to our community but also marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. I am full of excitement and determination to lead the organisation into a new era of growth and impact.”
“My aim is to build upon the rich legacy of the past hundred years while eagerly embracing the opportunities that lie ahead and propel Cambridgeshire ACRE to even greater success.”
“I am keen to start working with the talented team at Cambridgeshire ACRE to continue the organisation’s tradition of making a meaningful difference in the lives of the people we serve and empowering rural communities.”
Hayley will join Cambridgeshire ACRE in mid-June to allow a full handover to be completed before Kirsten leaves at the end of the month.
