StepChange Debt Charity has announced the appointment of Vikki Brownridge (pictured) as its new chief executive officer, effective from 1st May 2023.
Brownridge, the first woman to hold the position, succeeds Phil Andrew, who served as CEO for over five years.
Brownridge has been with StepChange for more than 17 years, progressing through various senior roles, including director of charity development and, most recently, director of operations.
She began her tenure at the charity as a debt advice center manager before transitioning to head of debt advice.
In this role, she played a key part in developing and launching the first online debt advice service while also delivering significant operational efficiencies.
John Griffith-Jones, chair of StepChange Debt Charity, expressed his delight in Brownridge’s appointment, citing her passion, knowledge, and insight as invaluable assets for the organisation’s future.
In response to her appointment, Brownridge expressed excitement about the opportunity to lead StepChange:
Brownridge said: “I am utterly thrilled to be the new chief executive of StepChange Debt Charity. It’s a real honour and such an exciting opportunity.
“I’ve been with the charity for more than 17 years and that is because of the amazing colleagues I get to work with every day and the fact that I passionately believe in the work the charity does and our vision to work towards a society free from problem debt.
“To be given the opportunity to lead the charity at such a critical time for those struggling with debt is an enormous privilege and I look forward to the challenge of ensuring the charity and our dedicated colleagues can continue to help as many people as possible while making the case for the change needed to reduce the harm caused by problem debt.”
Outgoing CEO Andrew added: “I’m absolutely delighted to see Vikki appointed as StepChange’s next chief executive.
“I can say from experience that it is the honour of a lifetime to serve in the role and to lead a group of such brilliant colleagues.
“I’m particularly pleased that Vikki has been appointed as the internal candidate, which I think shows how seriously we take nurturing and developing talent and future leaders.
“She could not be more deserving of this opportunity to lead the charity and I leave knowing it is in the best possible hands.”
