Sue Tibballs, the chief executive of campaigning infrastructure charity the Sheila McKechnie Foundation (SMK), is set to step down next month after holding the position for nine years.
The charity said in a statement that its board will appoint an interim CEO in the upcoming days before beginning to search for a permanent replacement in the new year.
Tibballs will leave her position at the end of January and will be consulting and pursuing some personal projects while she considers her next role.
SMK tripled in size under Tibballs
SMK chair Pete Moorey said: “We’d like to thank Sue for her long-term leadership of SMK over the past nine years.
“She has done a superb job, often in difficult circumstances, setting out a clear vision for SMK and delivering high-quality training programmes, advocacy and policy work.
“It should be recognised that during Sue’s tenure, SMK tripled in size, and its profile and impact grew considerably.
“Sue leaves behind a high-profile and influential organisation – a legacy she should be proud of. We are immensely grateful for everything she has achieved and wish her the very best for the future.”
Tibballs: ‘Many challenges over the past decade’
Tibballs said: “After nine years as chief executive, now feels like the right time for me to step down.
“Over the last nine years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting countless brilliant and committed campaigners – from those attending our training, to those we’ve celebrated at the SMK National Campaigner Awards, and the people and organisations who have partnered with and supported us.
“Their determination and belief in the need for change have sustained and motivated me every single day.
“It hasn’t always been easy. Civil society and campaigners have faced many challenges over the past decade, including attacks on the very right to campaign and mobilise.
“However, I have never been more confident in the future of campaigners and in the vital role SMK plays in supporting, championing, and protecting the campaigning space.
“I want to offer my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported SMK, especially our incredible staff and board of trustees.
“I wish the organisation every success in the future and will be cheering it on every step of the way.”
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