Chief Executive of DISC (Developing Initiatives Supporting Communities) Mark Weeding announced his retirement as CEO and revealed his successor as Paul Townsley, currently Northern Director of the Lifeline Project.
During Mark’s 25 years DISC has seen a significant increase in turnover, rising from £400K in 1990 to £21m in this financial year. “Following the last year of really strong results, I feel it’s the right time for me to step down and enjoy some quality time away from the pressures of running a successful organisation such as DISC,” said Mark.
“We carried out an extensive recruitment process and following a successful interview, I’m delighted to hand over the reins to Paul, who is highly thought of in the sector and who brings a wealth of experience to the role.”
Paul is currently working for the Lifeline Project as Northern Director, before that he was a Senior Director at the Crime Reduction Initiative (North) and prior to that he was the Chief Executive for the Westminster Drug Project for ten years. Paul is looking forward to the challenges he faces when he takes over the role in August.
“Working in the sector I have always admired DISC and the Chief Executive role is a fantastic opportunity coming at an exciting time for DISC and myself”
DISC is currently well placed to expand its operations, with a major new project about to start in Leeds on July 1st. Aligned with all the current work being undertake across the North of England, it looks as though the new CEO will find that he’s joining a progressive organisation that has further plans to expand .
“There are some great opportunities and challenges ahead and I cannot wait to start on the task of helping DISC and its service users fulfill their potential and build upon DISC’s reputation as an excellent provider of Social care services “ said Paul.
“DISC is well positioned for significant growth, due in large part to Mark’s vision, his leadership skills and his commitment to excellence. He will be greatly missed by DISC’s staff and the Board of Directors,” said Jim Black, Chair of Trustees at DISC. “Mark has the Board’s best wishes and we are indebted to him for his many years of exemplary service to DISC’s mission.”
“Having just enjoyed celebrating the 30th Anniversary of DISC, it’s good to know we have a dedicated staff, a strong Board of Trustees and a considerable number of volunteers supporting our work, I am immensely proud of the organisation that we have built here that’s goes the extra mile for those most excluded from society” said Mark.
All the staff and volunteers at DISC wish Mark the very best for the future, and look forward to working with Paul to continue to deliver the very best service to service users.
