South: Care South chief executive, Susan Willoughby retires

The board of Care South has announced the retirement of chief executive, Susan Willoughby, effective at the end of October. 

A chartered accountant by profession, Willoughby joined Care South (originally The Dorset Trust), a not for profit organisation and leading provider of residential and home care services across the south of England, in 1999 as interim finance director and was promoted to chief executive in January 2000.

Over the past 19 years Willoughby has led the company in a range of achievements; notably the creation of a strategy to ensure that the charity became financially secure, with a sustainable future, including the rebuild and acquisition of a number of homes. This has been challenging at times and rewarding at others, particularly when requiring the closure of homes to embrace new builds and ensure the safe transfer of residents and staff.

Most recently, Willoughby 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 November 1.

Commenting on her 19 years with Care South, Willoughby 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.”