Lucy de Groot, Independent Chair of Children’s Services Improvement Board, has been appointed the new Chief Executive of UK volunteering and training charity, CSV. (Tuesday 28th September 2010)

Lucy is an innovative, experienced national leader and senior executive who has worked across sectors at the highest level. Her previous roles include Executive Director of the Improvement and Development Agency; Director of Public Services, HM Treasury, and Chief Executive, Bristol City Council as well as ten years in the voluntary and community sectors.

Chair of CSV, Sir Jon Shortridge said:
“I am delighted that Lucy is joining CSV. She has made a huge impact in her various top level roles, and I am convinced that she is the right person to lead CSV in these difficult economic times, and to encourage it to continue to innovate and make a difference.”

Lucy de Groot said:
“I am thrilled to be appointed as the successor to Dame Elisabeth Hoodless who has led CSV for many years. CSV has a tremendous track record in delivering practical well managed volunteering approaches in very different settings and also in promoting and developing the whole concept of volunteering as a key part of active citizenship. I share this commitment and passion about improving the lives of citizens, especially the most vulnerable and believe that this mission could not be more important than in the current challenging economic and political climate."

Lucy will take up her post in February 2011.

For further press information: Jason Tanner 020 7812 0038 / 07941 433598 jtanner@csv.org.uk or Francesca Toma on 020 7812 0037 /  07966 168686

Notes for editors

1.    Lucy will not be doing any interviews in relation to her new role until she starts at CSV.

2.    CSV (Community Service Volunteers) creates opportunities for people to take an active part in the life of their communities through volunteering, training and community action. Every year CSV helps transform the lives of over 1 million people. Last year 167,064 people gave their time as volunteers through CSV. The charity trained 12,196 people of all ages.  www.csv.org.uk