Preston Charity bids farewell to CEO Susan as she retires after nearly three decades of service.
Caritas Care announces the retirement of Chief Executive Officer Susan Swarbrick after almost 28 years of service. Her leadership, compassion and commitment have shaped the Charity’s impact across generations of children and families.
Susan began her career in catering before retraining as a social worker, drawn to the lives of children she encountered working in the kitchen of a children’s home. She joined what was then Catholic Caring Services in 1998, progressing from social worker to Fostering Team Leader, Head of Children’s Services and ultimately CEO in January 2020.
Reflecting on her journey, Susan said: “I realised I was more interested in the work ongoing outside the kitchen and knew that supporting the well-being of children was where I wanted to be.”
Taking on the CEO role just before the COVID-19 pandemic, Susan guided Caritas Care through unprecedented challenges, maintaining high standards of care and strengthening relationships across services. Colleagues describe her as “softly spoken yet resolute, leading with empathy rather than confrontation, always reinforcing our belief in the work we do and the value we bring.”
Susan said, “I’ve loved every minute working at Caritas Care and being part of a charity who genuinely care about the people we support and their colleagues. Working there has been an incredible journey. Each day I’ve had the privilege of seeing the positive impact we make to children, families and communities and the chances, choices and opportunities we’ve given people so they can live the best lives they can. I will treasure these memories for years to come.”
Andy Bennett, Chair of Trustees, said, “Susan has led Caritas Care with integrity and deep compassion. She leaves behind not only a strong charity, but a culture rooted in kindness, support and professionalism.”
Susan hands over to the new CEO Phil East who commented, “Susan’s leadership has been both inspiring and grounding. I hope to honour the incredible work she’s done and continue the journey she started with the same care and focus.”
Susan now looks forward to a well-earned retirement filled with family, new hobbies, new home renovations and no doubt more baking.