Donna joined the organisation in 2022 as head of corporate and business services and, with a passion for social justice, has been working closely with key stakeholders to raise awareness of the work the charity has been delivering for more than five decades.

Having previously led a profitable and sustainable consultancy business in the energy industry with a focus on risk, compliance, and sustainability, Donna has a proven track record in successful business development as well as coaching and mentoring colleagues.

As a member of the Institute of Directors and Business Women Connections Aberdeen and a serving panel member and chair of the Aberdeen City Region of Children’s Hearings Scotland, Donna has a significant network and profile in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

Bruce Bricknell, chairperson, board of directors, Aberdeen Cyrenians, said: “In her new role, Donna will continue to deliver our strategic plan underpinned by our key goals. These include responding to the demands of societal challenges which adversely impact people on our own doorstep, promoting choice and inclusion through the delivery of locally based services in North-east communities and using the diversity of our skills, disciplines, and experiences to raise awareness and empower people to make positive and sustainable changes.

“On behalf of the board, and all of the team and volunteers at Aberdeen Cyrenians, I would like to congratulate Donna on her new position and look forward to continue working with her as she leads the organisation in this next chapter.”

Reflecting on her new appointment, Donna said: “I joined Aberdeen Cyrenians after 20 years in the energy industry and can honestly say that every day I spring out of bed. I love seeing the positive impact that Aberdeen Cyrenians has on the city and, if I can play even a small part in that, then I’m delighted and humbled.

“Our mission is to ensure that anyone and everyone has a safe, stable, and secure environment that they call home. We ensure our support is person-centred, offering holistic care with a trauma-informed approach.

“The most important thing I’ve learned is to recognise that anyone can be affected by circumstance. We are all two or three pay cheques away from scenarios we thought we may never encounter. Anyone can be affected, but everyone can help.

“Aberdeen Cyrenians was founded in 1968 by a group of volunteers and students from the University of Aberdeen who started a soup kitchen using the surplus food from the halls of residence. Since then, we have been a pioneer of firsts. From establishing the first day centre in Aberdeen to our residential and respite care accommodation in 1986, Wernham House, which has been recognised as a pioneering approach that is now being replicated across Europe.

“I think as citizens and human beings, we have a duty to look after each other, and I’m looking forward to continuing to support our amazing team and excellent volunteers in doing their incredible work.”