Beacon has appointed a new CEO, Lisa Cowley, who takes the helm of the Sedgley based charity following departing CEO, Arwyn Jones’ decision to semi-retire from the end of December.
Lisa brings a wealth of sector experience and knowledge, having previously held senior roles within the RSPB, The Conservation Volunteers (formerly known as BTCV), as a Trustee with the Youth Action Network and her most recent role as Deputy Chief Executive for Visitor Engagement and Operations at the Black Country Living Museum.
Lisa commented; “Having spent most of my career in the charity sector, I am really passionate about making a difference. As the new Beacon CEO, I am looking forward to working collaboratively with my colleagues and our supporters to help create a society where individuals value and protect their sight and where visual impairment does not limit or determine opportunity.
“Beacon has made a huge difference to visually impaired people over the last few years, and I feel lucky to be taking on this role at such an exciting time for the Charity and the sector, as we move forward with the future needs of our communities and partners firmly in mind.”
Arwyn Jones led the charity for over six years, significantly transforming its outlook from a site-based facility to a community focused organisation. Despite a challenging climate for the sector, Arwyn also led the investment in technological innovation which improved the lives of those living with sight loss. This included driverless pods to an award-winning ‘Fab Lab’ which incorporated digital design and manufacturing to support skills development for the visually impaired – as well as producing income from generating products.
Pauline Heffernan, Chair of the Beacon Centre, said; “Arwyn moves on from Beacon with our very best wishes for the future and heartfelt thanks for all he has achieved for us.
“We are excited to welcome Lisa as our new CEO and feel confident her experience and vision for Beacon’s future will steer us towards even greater success in our efforts to make a real difference for people living with sight loss.”