The Third Sector Interface has announced Alan Webb will take up the post.
Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway, which gives free support to charities, community groups, and social enterprises across the region, has appointed its next lead officer.
Alan Webb will replace the organisation’s current chief executive, Norma Austin Hart, when she retires later this year.
Mr Webb has been chosen to become the next chief executive officer.
His appointment follows a successful recruitment process that saw both local and national applications for the important role.
Alan currently works in the third sector, overseeing change in support of children, families, and communities.
Previously, he was an independent advisor with a particular focus on leadership, organisation design, and service design and development.
Alan has also been a panel member and panel chair at Children’s Hearings Scotland and was also the chair of a charity which works with families and is a mentor to young care experienced people at school.
He said: “I’m delighted to be joining Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway (TSDG) at such an important time. As many across our sector continue to adjust to a challenging post-pandemic environment, I believe we don’t just have to settle for recovery but should look to renewal for our essential sector.
“Across the charities delivering important services, the social enterprises creating opportunity, and the volunteer-involving community groups creating local connections, I’m looking forward to working alongside organisations across our region, supporting and representing wherever I can.
“I’ll also work with other Third Sector Interfaces and with local and national partners to recognise our impact and realise our potential through fair funding, a commitment to equal partnership, and investment in community-led development.”
Prior to entering the third sector, Alan undertook various roles incorporating service design, multichannel contact centres, learning and development and change leadership and marketing.
John Dougan, chair of TSDG’s board, said: “Alan comes with a rich wealth of practice and knowledge from extensive time working in the private and most recently in the third sector. I and my fellow trustees are very much looking forward to working with him as he begins his new role.
“As we congratulate Alan on his appointment, it is absolutely right that we pause and record our sincere thanks to our current CEO, Norma Austin Hart, who will shortly be retiring from her role. She has played a hugely significant role in reshaping and delivering for the third sector here in Dumfries and Galloway.”
Alan will leave his current role at Home Start, where he currently works as assistant director, development.
He has worked with the charity for seven years, initially as a trustee, before becoming chair, and then taking on other roles in the charity.
He wrote on social media: “Leaving a cause you love is tough. I’ll always admire and support the amazing work of Home-Start UK colleagues and volunteers in communities across the UK, there for our youngest children and their families.
“I’m looking forward to working a bit closer to home, supporting, representing and advocating for a strong third sector in the south of Scotland and across the nation. Recognising the impact of charities, social enterprises and community groups, working with others to realise the ambitions of fair funding, equal partnership and community-led development.”
