SSJ Bids Farewell to Chief Executive Trevor Pickup

February 5, 2024

After an extraordinary 31 years at the helm, Chief Executive Trevor Pickup is set to swap his leadership hat for a gardening fork as he retires from the Society of St. James (SSJ) in May 2024. Trevor’s dedication and leadership have become synonymous with the organisation, shaping its direction and impacting countless lives across these three decades.

Trevor says…”Leaving SSJ is bittersweet, but I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together. I’ve witnessed countless lives transformed, and that’s a legacy I’ll carry with me long after I’ve retired. I’m confident the next leader will build upon this foundation and continue to make a positive impact on our community. While I may be stepping down, my passion for supporting those in need remains strong. Who knows, maybe I’ll even set up a community allotment project!”

As Trevor prepares to embark on this well-deserved next chapter tending to his beloved allotment, SSJ embarks on a comprehensive search for their next leader. This transition ensures continued progress for the organisation, built upon the solid foundation laid by Trevor and his team.

Reflecting on 31 Years of Impact

Trevor’s tenure at SSJ has been defined by remarkable achievements. He has been instrumental in:

  • Expanding services and support for individuals experiencing homelessness: Leading the introduction of impactful initiatives like the Chronic Heavy Drinkers project that lead to the opening of wet houses and ultimately the St James Care Homes and his determination to secure more move-on accommodation for those who have been homeless.
  • Strengthening partnerships and community engagement: Fostering robust relationships with stakeholders, amplifying SSJ’s impact and securing vital resources.
  • Guiding SSJ through challenging times: His steady hand navigated the organisation through the pandemic and other unforeseen obstacles, ensuring its continued stability and ability to serve.

Looking to the Future

The search for Trevor’s successor prioritises finding a leader who embodies the organisation’s values and possesses the following qualities:

  • Proven track record in leading and growing complex organisations
  • Deep understanding of SSJ’s mission and target population
  • Strategic vision and ability to drive sustainable growth
  • Exceptional leadership skills fostering collaboration and high performance
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to build trust with stakeholders

Ensuring a Smooth Transition

Trevor remains fully committed to a seamless handover, supporting the Board and the search committee throughout the process. He is confident that a leader who can seamlessly guide SSJ towards continued success will be identified.

Expressing Deepest Gratitude

The entire SSJ community expresses its deepest gratitude to Trevor for his exceptional leadership and dedication over an incredible 31 years. While he may be swapping board meetings for weeding sessions, his legacy will continue to inspire as the organisation enters a new chapter, dedicated to fulfilling its mission and empowering individuals experiencing homelessness.

Join the Journey

To learn more about the Chief Executive position and how you can be part of SSJ’s future, visit the dedicated recruitment page here:  https://www.peridotpartners.co.uk/jobs/chief-executive-society-of-st-james-ssj/

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