Dave Jackson, chief executive of Sudbury’s Bridge Project charity, departs after three years in role

Change beckons at the helm of a prominent Sudbury charity as its chief executive departs for pastures new.

The Bridge Project announced CEO Dave Jackson was leaving the organisation to take up a new role in youth work this month.

Mr Jackson has been in the top position since October 2021, during which time he secured major grants for the social enterprise, which supports disadvantaged adults in and around Sudbury.

Notably, he led a successful bid for £234,000 from the National Lottery to help The Bridge Project to develop its new purpose-built site and expand its educational and community initiatives.

The charity thanked Mr Jackson for his contributions, stating that he had brought ‘boundless energy, enthusiasm and empathy’ to the role.

It also confirmed a formal search to recruit his successor would begin in September.

In the meantime, the position will be filled on an interim basis by Lucy Humphrey – currently the managing director at another Suffolk-based social enterprise, Leading Lives.

“The Bridge Project is a truly unique and special charity,” said Mr Jackson. “It will always have a special place in my heart.

“I will miss the team, students and community, but I couldn’t be happier to pass the baton on to Lucy, who will be supported by a great leadership team.”

While on secondment, Ms Humphreys will simultaneously continue her role at Leading Lives, where she has worked for more than 12 years.

The Bridge Project cited her ‘extensive leadership skills and deep understanding of third sector development’, which would help the charity to continue to thrive during the transitional period.

Ms Humphreys added: “I’m excited and flattered that Leading Lives has been approached.

“It shows that the partnerships we have been developing and the recent work we have undertaken has been effective.

“The Bridge Project has an excellent reputation and huge social impact.

“I’m looking forward to working closely with the senior leadership team and everyone involved in the charity.”

To learn more about The Bridge Project, call 01787 313691 or go to www.thebridgeproject.co.uk.