YMCA North Staffordshire has appointed a new Chief Executive Officer, following the retirement of the former CEO.

Nicky Twemlow, who is currently the Director of Communities and Partnerships at YMCA North Staffordshire, will formally take up the role on 1 April 2026.

She succeeds Daniel Flynn, who is stepping down after 23 years, during which he helped to support thousands of young people and families through housing, education, health and wellbeing, and youth development programmes.

Nicky Twemlow, New Chief Executive Officer said: "I feel incredibly humbled and honoured to have been appointed as the next Chief Executive Officer of YMCA North Staffordshire.

"It is a real privilege to be trusted by the Board of Trustees, our staff team and the young people to take on this role. Stoke-on-Trent has always been a place built on community, resilience and looking out for one another, and YMCA plays a vital part in that story.

"I care deeply about this city and the young peoplewho call it home, and I am committed to making sure they feel supported, valued and full of hope for their future.

"I'm honoured to build on the legacy of our outgoing Chief Executive Officer, Daniel Flynn, whose leadership has strengthened the organisation and its impact across North Staffordshire. I'm excited for what comes next as we continue working together to create opportunities and brighter futures for young people."

The new appointment follows a "comprehensive and competitive" recruitment process led by the Board of Trustees.

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They hope that Nicky will support the continued growth of YMCA North Staffordshire, which recently opened Hope Court accommodation and the Youth Hub, to expand safe housing, creative opportunities, and support for young people aged 16–25.

Peter Dartford, Chair of the Board of Trustees, said: "I am extremely pleased to announce the appointment of Nicky Twemlow as the next Chief Executive Officer of YMCA North Staffordshire.

"Nicky has worked for our YMCA for 19 years and is currently our Director of Communities and Partnerships. In that role, Nicky led the recent City-wide consultation exercise, where we engaged with 3,000 young people to explore their lived experiences, aspirations and concerns regarding their future and the city they call home.

"Nicky will now play a leading role in delivering the changes that those young people have clearly identified are needed, as well as ensuring that YMCA North Staffordshire continues to provide support to those in need to help the young people of Stoke on Trent and North Staffordshire to thrive and realise their full potential."

YMCA North Staffordshire explained that it supports more than 5,000 people each year and provides safe accommodation, youth services, education, and community programmes across the region.

The new Chief Executive Officer will now work closely with the trustees, leadership team, staff, and partners to deliver the organisation's strategic vision and strengthen its role as a leading youth and community organisation.