South: Care South appoints Simon Bird as new chief executive

Care South, a leading provider of residential and home-care services across the south of England, is pleased to announce the appointment of Simon Bird as the charity’s new chief executive.

Bird, who has been with Care South, since 2011– most recently in the role of deputy chief executive - takes over on November 1 from outgoing chief executive, Susan Willoughby who is retiring.

A qualified chartered surveyor, formerly with Pinders, specialist business valuers and consultants, Bird originally joined Care South - a not for profit organisation - as property & marketing director, bringing with him a wealth of property experience and has proved invaluable in the years of development of the company.

Commenting on Bird’s appointment, chairman of Care South, Felicity Irwin DL, said: “We are delighted to have appointed Simon as Chief Executive.  His vision for the company, alongside his commitment and caring nature, were all significant contributory factors in our decision to make this appointment. 

“Having worked closely with Simon for the last seven years, I have every confidence in his ability to drive the company forward in the future, enabling Care South to develop and continue to provide the very best care for our residents and home care clients.”

Bird added: “I would like to thank the chairman and the board of trustees for their confidence in me and I am looking forward to continuing the fantastic work that Susan has delivered for the charity, our staff, residents and clients over the last 19 years.  I am very excited to be given the opportunity to lead such a dynamic and caring organisation at an important time.”  

Retiring after almost 19 years with Care South, Willoughby had led the charity – originally known as The Dorset Trust – through a significant period of growth, especially in recent times, with the opening of three new care homes in the last three years being, St Ives Country House Care near Ringwood and Alexandra House residential and dementia care home in Parkstone, Poole, which opened earlier this year and Wickmeads in Southbourne.