ADASS joint CEO To Step Down After A Decade

Last updated: 10 June 2024

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Cathie Williams, joint Chief Executive of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services will step down from the role in early summer, after almost ten years leading the organisation.

Commenting on her contribution, Beverley Tarka, President of ADASS said: “Cathie has been instrumental in making ADASS the organisation it is today, and we are very grateful for her long-term commitment to the organisation.

“We’ve all benefited greatly from Cathie’s extensive experience and networks, having covered most roles in local government social work and social care during her career. Immediately prior to becoming ADASS CEO, Cathie worked for the Local Government Association and us initiating and developing Making Safeguarding Personal, contributing to the development of the Care Act, alongside many committed individuals and organisations.

“Under her leadership, ADASS has navigated the challenges of austerity, a major care provider collapse, the Covid 19 pandemic and a continuing social care workforce crisis. Positively, during this time, social care has become a more recognised part of the essential fabric of our society alongside the NHS and has grown in the public consciousness.

“On a personal note, I would like to say a massive thank you to Cathie for her support during my term as President of ADASS. Cathie’s commitment to her role has been unparalleled and I’m sure I speak for everyone in wishing her the very best wishes for the future.

Cathie Williams says: “I joined ADASS in 1997 when I was first appointed as a Director of Adult Social Services, and I remain utterly committed to ADASSs goals to improve outcomes for all of us drawing on and working in care and support. I’m extremely grateful to everyone who has been on that journey with me, from very wide walks of life, from whom I have learnt so much, who have challenged and supported me and shared tears, frustration, laughter, and delight. I’m not intending to hang up the boots completely and look forward to finding other fields in which to make a positive contribution.

Melanie Williams, Vice-President of ADASS added: “Cathie has had a significant impact on our work and has always been an important advocate for people we support through adult social care and I am grateful for her commitment to ADASS in the time we have worked together.”

Cathie currently job shares the CEO role with Anna Hemmings, who will work on a full-time basis from the end of April. Anna is employed on an interim basis and the search for a new permanent CEO will start in the coming months.

For more information, please contact ADASS Communications and Public Affairs Officer, vicky.smith@adass.org.uk