News from Community Action Norfolk

An update from Community Action Norfolk

Community Action Norfolk (CAN) is pleased to announce the appointment of Rik Martin as its new permanent Chief Executive. Rik joined the organisation in October 2010 and has worked as Operations Manager and Deputy Chief Executive, before becoming Acting Chief Executive last year. He has a background in adult education and learning, and a strong record in community development, capacity building and funding which aligns very much with the future direction set by the CAN Board of Trustees.

Rik’s appointment comes at a time when the Board of Trustees has completed the first stage of a strategic plan, involving its staff and stakeholders, leading to the launch of new statements of purpose. CAN’s new strategy will be based on it remaining an independent, but collaborative partner within Norfolk’s voluntary and community sector through the following actions:

• Harnessing the value of connecting people and services in the communities of Norfolk
• Supporting people to make a positive difference by providing information, advice, training and support for positive outcomes in the communities of Norfolk

Chair of the Board of Trustees, James Kearns, said

“We have listened to a range of views and considered a range of options, about the future direction of CAN, and have concluded that our focus will be about connecting and supporting the communities of Norfolk. We will be working locally, and collaboratively, with a range of partners, towards sustainable, and real positive outcomes for those communities.  In appointing Rik on a permanent basis, and strengthening the leadership and support teams within CAN, we are confident, that as we add detail to our strategic and operation plans over the coming months we can make a positive difference to the communities we live and work in.”

We are excited about Rik's appointment as CEO, and we are looking forward to see how CAN evolves in the future.