Dianne Asher has retired after more than six years as Chief Executive of Wirral Autistic Society.
Since joining the society she has seen its annual turnover and the number of staff employed more than double. The society now provides jobs for 700 people and turns over £13.5m.
Major projects she has spearheaded have included the creation of a purpose-built £1.3m respite centre funded entirely by charitable donations, the creation of a garden centre and cafe at Bromborough Pool Village and the opening of a family centre in Birkenhead.
(L to R) Dianne Asher and JohnBattersby
The biggest appeal in the society’s 45 year history was launched earlier this year. The first phase of the Lifetime Appeal is to raise £755k to completely redevelop Raby Hall to provide specialist residential accommodation for residents. After only seven months almost £500k has been raised.
Once the Raby Hall project is completed the society’s other four residential properties will be redeveloped at a cost in the region of £2.5m.
Mrs Asher said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed the last six and a half years working for this wonderful organisation and have been very proud to have been associated with its growth and ever improving standards of care, support and autism practice. I am sure it will continue to go from strength to strength.”
Paying tribute to her the society’s chairman, John Battersby, said: “We have been fortunate to have had the support of such an experienced and dedicated professional and on behalf of the members and supporters I wish her a long and happy retirement.”
Mrs Asher is succeeded as chief executive by Robin Bush.
(L to R) Dianne Asher and new Chief Executive Robin Bush
