The Association of Jersey Charities has appointed Beth Gallichan as its first Chief Executive, commencing her duties on 1st November.
In her new role, Beth (pictured) will lead the Association of Jersey Charities (AJC) in delivering on its key objectives to encourage and facilitate charitable work, promote collaboration among charities, assist and represent charities, provide training and distribute charitable funds.
She will also play a pivotal role in maintaining and developing strong relationships among members and key stakeholders in the sector, and work with the existing team to develop new services for member charities.
Beth is well known in the sector, having volunteered and worked for charities for almost 20 years, including with the Jersey Youth Project, Headway Jersey, Autism Jersey, Raleigh International, Jersey Cares Refugee Aid Group, Brighter Futures, Community Savings, Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, Jersey Youth Arts and Side by Side.
In particular, Beth founded the Groove de Lecq Festival, which raised over £100,000 for local charities between 2013 and 2018, while as Chair of the Jersey Fundraising Forum, she was instrumental in modernising the process for charities to claim back tax on donations. Beth currently works for the Bristol Zoological Society, leading a capital campaign to create a new zoo for the 21st century in the West of England. She holds a diploma in fundraising management from the Chartered Institute of Fundraising.
Beth’s appointment follows a comprehensive recruitment and selection process, which attracted a large number of high quality candidates. Her qualifications, experience and passion for the Jersey charitable sector made her the Committee’s unanimous choice.
Commenting on her appointment, Beth said: “It’s an incredible privilege to have the opportunity to lead the Association of Jersey Charities. For over 50 years, it has provided the advancement and support needed to ensure charities can operate and be successful in Jersey. Throughout my career, I have been an advocate for the non-profit sector and the vital role it has in serving our island community. I commend the contribution that an army of dedicated volunteers and influential donors contribute to enriching the lives of thousands of people, animals and our shared culture.
“As social inequalities and climate emergency threats grow, never before has it been more important to collaborate and be more united. My wish is to continue to advocate and innovate to best support the needs of charities and their beneficiaries, for now, and the future.”
Kevin Keen, Chair of the AJC, added: “We are delighted to announce the appointment of Beth as our first Chief Executive, which will allow us to extend the range of services and enhance the support we are able to provide to our member charities. Beth is well known and respected in the sector and is ideally qualified for this role.”
Beth will give a short presentation and outline her priorities at the AJC’s annual general meeting, taking place next week (14th September).