ADASS joint CEO to step down

Joint chief executive of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS) Cathie Williams will step down from her role in early summer after almost ten years leading the organisation.

Williams job shares the role with Anna Hemmings, who will work on a full-time basis from the end of April. Hemmings is employed on an interim basis and the search for a permanent CEO will start in the coming months.

Williams said: ‘I joined ADASS in 1997 when I was first appointed as a director of adult social services, and I remain utterly committed to ADASS’s goals to improve outcomes for people drawing on and working in care and support. I’m extremely grateful to everyone who has been on that journey with me, from very wide walks of life, from whom I have learnt so much, who have challenged and supported me and shared tears, frustration, laughter, and delight. I’m not intending to hang up the boots completely and look forward to finding other fields in which to make a positive contribution.’

Beverley Tarka, ADASS president, said: ‘We’ve all benefited greatly from Cathie’s extensive experience and networks, having covered most roles in local government social work and social care during her career. Immediately prior to becoming ADASS CEO, Cathie worked for the Local Government Association and us initiating and developing Making Safeguarding Personal, contributing to the development of the Care Act, alongside many committed individuals and organisations.

‘Under her leadership, ADASS has navigated the challenges of austerity, a major care provider collapse, the Covid-19 pandemic and a continuing social care workforce crisis. Positively, during this time, social care has become a more recognised part of the essential fabric of our society alongside the NHS and has grown in the public consciousness.’