Chief Executive of StepChange Debt Charity Phil Andrew has today announced that he is stepping down in 2023 after five years in post. Phil will remain in post well in to 2023 to support the Board and Executive team to continue to deliver during an unprecedented cost-of-living crisis and to offer any support as the charity recruits a new CEO.
During his time at StepChange, Phil has built a new Executive leadership team, led the charity’s response to the pandemic, and explored innovative new ways to support clients. Under his leadership, StepChange has built strong relationships with key partners and sector stakeholders, completed a move to a streamlined head office in Leeds, and embedded the new statutory Breathing Space scheme to support clients.
Phil Andrew said:
“It’s been an absolute privilege to lead the organisation – and such a dedicated, passionate and professional group of colleagues - during my time as Chief Executive of StepChange.
“What a five years it has been. I could never have imagined back in 2017 that I’d be Chief Executive during a global pandemic and all the uncertainty and instability that that entails. I’ve thought long and hard about the decision to leave such an amazing charity like StepChange, but have felt for some time that five years in a role like this is long enough for myself, my family and the charity.
“I look forward to working with the Board and Executive Team as we continue to respond to the cost-of-living crisis and will give the charity and my successor my full support to continue the vital work StepChange delivers day in, day out.”
Chair of StepChange, John Griffith-Jones said:
“It is with real sadness that we announce Phil’s decision to leave StepChange next year. We owe him an enormous debt of gratitude for managing the charity through a five-year period more extraordinary and challenging than anyone could have anticipated.
“It’s been a real pleasure working with Phil since I joined the charity as Chair back in 2019 and I’ve seen up close his passion, tenacity and absolutely tireless work ethic to support our colleagues and serve our clients.
“While no tenure as Chief Executive is ever smooth sailing, Phil has much to be proud of as he moves on to his next challenge. The relations with creditors and key partners he leaves behind, our significantly enhanced brand presence and a drive to be more efficient are all things that I and the whole Board of Trustees are grateful for.
“Phil will remain in post well into the new year to support us as we respond to the cost-of-living crisis, make the needed changes as we adjust to a new commissioning structure in the sector and appoint a successor”.
The search now begins for Phil’s successor, with Saxton Bampfylde appointed as executive search agent for the charity.