Care South Chief Executive Susan Willoughby retires

Susan, a Chartered Accountant by profession, joined Care South, a leading provider of residential and home care services across the south of England, in 1999. Originally known as The Dorset Trust, Susan joined the not for profit organisation as interim Finance Director in 1999 and was promoted to Chief Executive in January 2000.

Over the past 19 years Susan has led the company in a range of achievements which also required the creation of a strategy to ensure that the charity became financially secure, with a sustainable future and included the rebuild and acquisition of a number of homes.

Most recently, Susan has led the team in the commissioning and opening of three new homes: St Ives Country House Care near Ringwood, Wickmeads residential care home in Bournemouth and Alexandra House residential and dementia care home in Poole, which opened earlier this year.

Simon Bird, Property Director and Deputy Chief Executive will take over the position as Chief Executive on 1 November.

Commenting on her 19 years with Care South, Susan said, “It has been a privilege to be Chief Executive of such a special charity. I have seen many changes during my time but the one thing that has never changed is the passion, commitment and dedication of our staff to ensure our residents receive the very best care and feel at home while in our homes.

“I wish Simon and the team at Care South continued success and I would like to thank everyone for the fond memories I take with me.”

Felicity Irwin DL, Chairman of Care South said, “Susan has been a credit to Care South, her achievements and commitment to the charity are something she can look back on with pride. Susan has always had a caring and empathetic relationship with the staff and has laid a path that will be closely followed in the future.

“I would like to thank Susan for her contribution and dedication, which have been a considerable factor in making Care South what it is today. On behalf of everyone at Care South, I would like to wish Susan a well-deserved and happy retirement.”