Celia McKeon, former Chief Executive of the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust, announced as new CEO at Two Ridings
Two Ridings is delighted to announce the appointment of Celia McKeon as the new CEO.
Previously the Chief Executive of the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust (JRCT) and with 25 years of expertise in the voluntary sector, locally, nationally and internationally, Celia brings a wealth of experience in driving and supporting positive social change.
As well as grant making, Celia has a background in conflict resolution and is a strong advocate for social justice and the power of community.
Taking over from Jan Garrill, who has grown the foundation over the last 9 years – distributing £13 million worth of grants – Celia will lead the foundation at a crucial time when the cost of living crisis is affecting people all over the region and a new £1.3 million fund for Hull has just been won.
She is a natural fit at Two Ridings where she will continue securing new funds and donors for the foundation, alongside leading the team and taking the foundation’s strategic direction to the next level.
Celia McKeon said:
“I am thrilled to be joining Two Ridings Community Foundation as Chief Executive.
“All across our region we can see the power of community action in changing people’s lives. I have experienced first-hand the crucial role that Two Ridings plays in making this possible – supporting hundreds of local charities every year to access vital funds and increase their impact.
It is a real honour to be able to build on the fantastic work of Jan Garrill and the team, and lead the organisation into its next phase of growth and development.”
Yorkshire based, Celia has had strong ties to the region all her life, and lives with her family in York.
Celia went on to say:
“I can’t wait to connect with the many passionate, talented people and organisations across North Yorkshire and the East Riding, and work with them to respond to current challenges and prepare for the future.”
Richard Frith, Chair of the Trustees at Two Ridings is delighted to welcome Celia.
“Celia’s experience, passion and empathy is perfect for how we operate at Two Ridings.
“I am very much looking forward to working with her to create an even stronger foundation, building up our endowment and bringing new money in, so we can support more and more local communities and people.”
He further added:
“We have such a strong team at Two Ridings, and Jan’s leadership has been inspiring. It is great to have such an experienced advocate with a real understanding of grant making to continue her work.
“Two Ridings gave away £2.2million in 523 grants last year. That was thanks to the generosity of donors and supporters all over the region. I know Celia will continue that crucial work in nurturing key relationships so people know where to make donations and set up funds that really have an impact.”
Over the next two months Jan and Celia will work together to ensure a smooth and seamless handover. Celia will take up the CEO post at Two Ridings in May.
