Bournemouth Blind Society Announces Leadership Transition as Chair Steps Down and CEO Retires After 17 Years
Bournemouth Blind Society logo
Bournemouth Blind Society today announced a significant transition in its leadership, following the departure of Chair Madeleine Avis and the retirement of Chief Executive Philip Tarrant after 17 years of dedicated service. Gemma McKnight has taken up the role of Chief Executive Officer, leading the charity into its next chapter.
Madeleine Avis recently stepped down as Chair of the Board of Trustees following a long and valued association with Bournemouth Blind Society, having served as a trustee, Deputy Chair and Chair, as well as providing pro bono legal support to the charity over many years. During her time as Chair, Madeleine provided steady and committed leadership, helping to guide the Society through the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic and supporting its mission to improve the lives of people living with sight loss across Bournemouth and the surrounding area.
Speaking on her decision to step down, Madeleine Avis said:
Madeleine Avis"It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of Bournemouth Blind Society. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together on behalf of the local sight loss community, and I leave knowing the Society is in strong hands as it enters this exciting new chapter."
The Society also paid tribute to former Chief Executive Philip Tarrant, who retired after 17 years leading the organisation. Under his leadership, Bournemouth Blind Society became a trusted source of support, advice and community for blind and partially sighted people across the area. Philip’s commitment, compassion and leadership helped shape the charity into the organisation it is today.
Philip is smiling. He is wearing a greyish blue shirt with white dots.
Philip reflected on his time at the helm:
Philip Tarrant"Leading Bournemouth Blind Society for the past 17 years has been the privilege of my working life. I have watched the organisation grow and adapt to meet the needs of the people we serve, and I am immensely grateful to the staff, volunteers, trustees and service users who have made that possible. I leave with full confidence in Gemma and the team to continue that work."
Taking over as Chief Executive is Gemma McKnight, who joins Bournemouth Blind Society with a strong track record in income generation, communications and partnership working, together with a clear commitment to championing the needs of blind and partially sighted people across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
Gemma McKnight is smiling, standing with her left hand on her hip. She is wearing glasses and a silver/grey patterned dress.
Speaking about her appointment, Gemma McKnight said:
Gemma McKnight"I am honoured to be joining Bournemouth Blind Society as its new Chief Executive. This is an organisation with a proud history of supporting people with sight loss, and I am excited to build on that legacy alongside such a dedicated team of staff, volunteers and trustees. I look forward to meeting the people we support, listening to their experiences, and working together to shape the Society's future."
As Bournemouth Blind Society moves forward under new leadership, the charity remains committed to ensuring that blind and partially sighted people can access the support, information and opportunities they need to live independently, confidently and well. The organisation also extends its sincere thanks to both Madeleine Avis and Philip Tarrant for their outstanding service and lasting contribution to the local sight loss community.
For more information, please contact info@bournemouthblindsociety.uk
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