THE CHIEF executive of Stratford Town Trust is stepping down.
Justin Williams – who has been in the role for two years – is leaving the grant-giving charity in August to support his wife who has taken a new job in Australia.
A spokesperson for the board of trustees said: “Justin brought a new energy to the work of the town trust with the community, literally opening the doors to the trust and our work in his weekly clinics.
“He was determined that the trust should be seen as a catalyst for social change to transform the lives of our most vulnerable and disadvantaged residents.”
Among other things Mr Williams’ work included the recent launch of Foundation House – Stratford’s new community space bringing residents and organisations together.
He was also the target for criticism following the announcement the trust would be pulling the plug on funding for Stratford ArtsHouse, which it owns.
The New Zealander was appointed in 2016 due to his wide experience in the not-for-profit and commercial sectors.
Mr Williams said: “Working in Stratford-upon-Avon is not something that you can do in part. Stratford engages you, drawing you into the environment like no other that I have experienced.
“Leaving is the hardest part for me as I love being part of Stratford-upon-Avon, especially being in a role that I believe to be a great privilege.
“To be able to be able to work with so many great people and in providing support to so many, this will be a very, very difficult balance to replicate anywhere.”
The post is currently being advertised and trustees are hoping to announce a successor next month.
