YMCA North Staffordshire has promoted long-standing senior leader Nicky Twemlow to chief executive, bringing internal continuity to one of the region’s largest youth and housing charities.
Nicky, who is well-known across North Staffordshire for her far-reaching work with communities and stakeholders, steps into the role on 1 April 2026. She succeeds Danny Flynn, who is leaving after 23 years at the helm.
The appointment followed a competitive recruitment process.
Currently director of communities and partnerships, Nicky has spent 19 years with the organisation.
Her work has included leading a city-wide consultation with 3,000 young people to better understand their lived experience, ambitions and concerns about Stoke-on-Trent. Trustees expect that insight to inform future service design and investment priorities.
The transition comes during a period of growth. The charity has recently opened Hope Court accommodation and a new Youth Hub, expanding supported housing and programme space for 16 to 25-year-olds.
YMCA North Staffordshire now supports more than 5,000 people annually through housing, education, health and wellbeing, and youth development services .
For local authorities and commissioning partners, the appointment signals stability at a time of sustained demand for youth housing and early intervention services.
An internal successor suggests a focus on consolidating recent capital expansion while strengthening cross-sector partnerships.
Nicky said: “I feel incredibly humbled and honoured to have been appointed as the next Chief Executive Officer of YMCA North Staffordshire.
“I care deeply about this city and the young people who call it home, and I am committed to making sure they feel supported, valued and full of hope for their future.”
She added that her immediate priorities will include delivering the organisation’s strategic plan and building on the legacy of sustained growth established under her predecessor.
