EVOC has announced Bridie Ashrown as new chief executive

Edinburgh Voluntary Organisations Council have announced that Bridie Ashrown will be stepping into the role of chief executive at the end of March 2021.

Bridie Ashrowan set to take over the new role

Bridie will bring with her over thirty years’ of experience in the community sector to Evoc, having worked in start-ups, social enterprise and business - including her most recent position as chief executive at Space: Broomhouse Hub.

During her time at Space: Broomhouse Hub, she successfully oversaw the £3.2 million capital investment programme that led to the opening of the Hub towards the end of 2019.

The Hub is a local community development trust in an area that has some of the highest child and in-work poverty in Scotland.

Bridie said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to lead EVOC and to take up the reins from Ella Simpson. Across the communities of Edinburgh, there will be many who will face hugely challenging circumstances. I look forward to working with partners, this talented team and the folk of Edinburgh in building a future together that we can be proud of.

Earlier this year EVOC committed to a three-year strategic plan,which was informed by their deep understanding of the practice, priorities and pressures in communities, the voluntary sector and the public sector.

There is a feeling that Bridie’s extensive experience will ensure she can steer the organisation to the successful delivery of that strategy through the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

Ella Simpson, the current chief executive, said: “I’ve had the most amazing time working for EVOC. It has been an absolute privilege to work with such an incredible team and dedicated Board. It’s in our DNA to work with people, partners and all our stakeholders and I know that Bridie will build on that strong heritage.

"It would always have been bitter sweet to leave EVOC and this has been a particularly difficult year for everyone. However, I know the strength and courage of EVOC and our sector and I’m convinced that with Bridie’s leadership and the dedication of the EVOC team, peoples’ voices and the sector’s value will be heard and understood.”

A message from the Editor:

Thank you for reading this article. We're more reliant on your support than ever as the shift in consumer habits brought about by coronavirus impacts our advertisers.

If you haven't already, please consider supporting our trusted, fact-checked journalism by taking out a digital subscription.