Voluntary Action North Somerset has appointed a new top chief

Mandy Gardner replaced Paul Lucock as chief executive of Voluntary Action North Somerset (VANS) earlier this month. 

Ms Gardner is teacher trained and has worked across education and charity. She is currently completing a PhD at the University of the West of England on sustainable community businesses.

She said: “I look forward and am excited to be joining the VANS team and building on the great foundation and further growth potential of VANS in the voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise sector over the coming years and supporting our partners and working with stakeholders and communities across North Somerset."

For the past three years Paul has led VANS through a period stymied by the Covid pandemic. 

He now steps aside from the role to pursue other interests in developing initiatives within the community sector across North Somerset.

“Paul has led a significant reshaping and growth of VANS over the last three years and our organisation is in a very positive position," said VANS chairperson, Delyth Lloyd-Evans.

"I am excited to welcome Mandy to the VANS team to take us forward during our next phase.

"Her track record, depth of knowledge, experience within the sector and enthusiasm about joining VANS makes her an ideal leader to build on the great work of Paul and the rest of the team.”