Autism Together's new CEO Richard Whitby outside the head office

Autism Together has appointed Richard Whitby as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Richard replaces Sue Stubbs, who retired having led the Wirral-based charity since 2019.

From its base in Bromborough, Autism Together supports autistic people of all ages, with around 800 staff providing residential, supported living and day services to over 400 autistic adults, and support to many more families across the region.

Richard joins the organisation after three years as CEO of Nazareth Care Charitable Trust.

Wirral born and bred, Richard brings with him over 15 years of experience in the health, social care and charity sectors.

Along with Nazareth Care, Richard has worked in senior leadership roles for some of the largest care providers in the UK charity sector, including Aspirations and Community Integrated Care.

A former support worker himself, Richard has worked through various levels of social care management to achieve success at CEO level, and so brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the charity.

Richard Whitby, Autism Together’s new CEO, said:

“Under my leadership, Autism Together will continue to be a modern, inclusive charity, working positively for the people we support and our dedicated staff teams.

“I want to ensure the people we support genuinely have a voice and that this voice is heard, so we need to help push the dialogue on autism acceptance and support, both regionally and nationally.

“I also want our bright, caring, diligent support staff to be recognised as the skilled and essential workforce they are.

“I am proud to be returning to my Wirral roots and look forward to leading this wonderful charity into an exciting future.”

Iain Cadman, Chair of Autism Together’s Board of Trustees, said:

“We are delighted to confirm Richard’s appointment as our new CEO.

“Richard has been appointed at an important time for our charity as we look to expand our services and grow as a care provider across Merseyside and Cheshire.

“Under Richard’s leadership, we believe we will strengthen our position as an employer of choice in the care sector, while becoming an increasingly influential voice within the charity sector and alongside the autistic community across the UK.”