Sarah Bryan takes over as Back Up’s new CEO

Organisational

Photo of CEO Sarah Bryan

We’re pleased to announce that Sarah Bryan has officially begun her tenure as the new CEO of Back Up. She takes over from Louise Wright who departed this month following ten highly successful years in post. Sarah has joined at an exciting time for the organisation, as we continue to increase the reach and breadth of our services year-on-year to meet the changing needs of people affected by spinal cord injury.

We recently launched a new service to support family members of people with spinal cord injury, and we’re looking to grow our presence in Scotland with the launch of a permanent role there. Sarah will play a vital role in ensuring these key developments take place smoothly, whilst developing and delivering Back Up’s five-year strategy through to 2020.

”It is an exciting time to join Back Up as it enters the third year of an ambitious strategy with plans to grow income and reach more people affected by spinal cord injury.”

”The people that you meet at Back Up are fantastic: an experienced and committed staff team who are supported by an army of passionate volunteers and an enthusiastic board. Everyone shares a drive and relentless determination to improve the lives of those affected by spinal cord injury.”

Sarah has a wealth of experience in the charity sector, having previously worked for Leonard Cheshire Disability and Combat Stress. She’s particularly excited about working for an organisation with a strong user-led focus with services designed for and by people with spinal cord injury.

”I believe that Back Up is an outstanding example of a charity which is truly user led. Back Up listens to feedback from people affected by spinal cord injury and this informs everything they do.”

”I wanted to work for an organisation that is making the world more equal. The vision, mission and values of Back Up are clear and inspiring. The legislative framework exists to support disabled people to live the life they choose, but the reality for many people is very different. Until people affected by spinal cord injury are able to realise their full potential, Back Up will be here to support them.”

We’re looking forward to seeing Sarah building on our successes and growing the organisation in the years to come – ensuring we can support everyone affected by spinal cord injury to lead enjoyable, active and fulfilling lives.