Change at the top

Andrew Thomson is Carr Gomm’s new chief executive.

He was Previously the charity’s deputy chief executive and succeeds Lucy Wren who has retired from Carr Gomm after 27 years of leadership.

Thomson’s key focus will be on developing innovative ways to support people to achieve positive outcomes, both within the Carr Gomm community and beyond.

He said: “I feel a tremendous joy and responsibility to be the third custodian of this job role. Carr Gomm has always worked where others hesitate; at the edges where systems strain and individuals are most at risk.

“This is at the very core of who we are. We deliberately operate at the edges because that’s where need is often the most acute; where systems can fail to respond quickly and where people, real people with real stories, require human connection, compassion and kindness.

“We have always pushed the boundaries of possibility with curiosity, creativity and courage.

“I will keep fighting for fair pay and better recognition across our sector. Our future depends on increasing the value of social care – economically, culturally and politically.”

With a commitment to influencing government policies and actions throughout Scotland Thomson has not been afraid to challenge the status quo, writing a piece entitled ‘Should we defund the National Health Service’ in TFN’s August 2024 magazine.

In November he will be taking part in the COSLA Annual Conference and Exhibition, speaking on ‘Building The Future For Care’ as part of the Third Sector Social Care CEO Grouping.

Chair of Carr Gomm’s board of trustees, Greg Mackay, said: “Andrew brings a deep understanding of our organisation, a strong values-led approach, and a bold vision for what comes next. The board looks forward to working with Andrew as chief executive.”