Managing Volunteers Conference 2021

After 20 some years in the sector I’m beginning to understand that what stops us achieving our goals and aspirations isn’t usually about systems, processes or even funding. It’s about our ability to have really honest and meaningful conversations that enable us to collaborate effectively. Having worked across international aid, disability, animal welfare, local government and heritage I see the same challenges, patterns and opportunities appear, get seized, missed or wrestled with on a regular basis. In my role as a consultant, facilitator, trainer, supportive and critical friend my driving passion is ‘Empowering people to have great conversations so they can conspire together to do fantastic things’.

David founded charity consultancy CITOC in August 2019 after 16 years working in the charity sector including holding two Chief Executive posts. He also brings experience of the commercial sector, having been employed by a well known bank for several years before transferring to the charity world. An experienced third-sector ex-Chief Executive and senior manager (turned consultant) with a successful track record managing change and growth in three charities. Skilled in all aspects of charity management, business and budget planning, event management, HR, communications and fundraising. David is educated to Masters level; he completed his MBA with The Open University, with emphasis on marketing, communications, finance and HR management. David has often been described as “a man that gets things done” in both work and in his community, something he regards as very high praise indeed and that reflects his personal ambitions. He is 56 and lives in Kilsby in Northamptonshire. David has also always been (and continues to be) engaged with local charities and community initiatives, at various times as a trustee, activist, event organiser and host, school governor, hospital volunteer, and working in partnership with local Lions, Round Table, and Rotary Clubs.

Lakechia is a Biomedical and Public Health Scientist with a background in Film and Television, including past work with BBC Look North, ITV, CBBC and BBC Radio Humberside. Her academic research has included Diabetes Markers relating to Social Inequalities and Public Health Reform. She is now works in Economic Development and is a Keynote Speaker and a Multi-Award Winning Founder and Editor for GirlsinScience.co.uk .

Rob Jackson is Director of Rob Jackson Consulting Ltd, a consultancy and training company that helps engage and inspire people to bring about change. Rob has more than two decades experience working in the voluntary and community sector, holding a variety of strategic development and senior management roles that have focused on leading and engaging volunteers. Rob has run his company since 2011 working with a wide range of clients in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, the USA and Canada. Rob is co-author of The Complete Volunteer Management Handbook (DSC, 2012) and From The Top Down - UK Edition (Energize Inc., 2015).