THE founder of a Burntwood organisation says it is "the right time" to move on from her role after 11 years.
Esther Allen has been at the helm of Spark for 11 years, but will step down as CEO.
She said the experience of setting up the organisation to support local families had been "truly life-changing".
Esther said:
"To say Spark is important to me and my family is an understatement. Having our baby daughter Rose gave us the fire to set up Spark when the children’s centres closed in 2015.
"Along with many wonderful parents and grandparents, the support of the wider Burntwood community and far too many individual people and organisations to mention, Spark was the spark of an idea and a spark of hope that grew beyond what any of us could ever have imagined.
"It was not part of any plan for me to set up Spark but a truly life-changing curveball as I unexpectedly ended up founding and leading the charity with the patient support of my husband Kirk, my parents Jean and John and many friends and cheerleaders.
"Sparklers are united in the belief that children in Burntwood and beyond deserve the best start in life and that it takes a village to raise a child – it has been an absolute honour and privilege to lead that cause for the last 11 years and to fight on behalf of local families."
She said the decision had been a "difficult" one, but was confident that the two people who will replace her – Jenni Ross-Harwood and Paula Harris – meant the organisation was in "good hands".
Esther added:
"I have gained so much from being part of Spark. There have been many challenges and changes over the 11 years – and so many people have worked so hard to get Spark to where it is now.
"It has been a very difficult decision to move on, but it’s important to recognise when it’s the right time.
"I want the very best for Spark and I know with a great team it will go into its next decade with fresh energy.
"I am really so happy to be passing the Spark flame on to two local moms, bringing a wealth of experience to Spark’s leadership, but most importantly they have the same passion for Spark.
"I am not moving on to anywhere new yet, as I want to make sure we do a really smooth transition so you’ll still see me about for a while as this takes place.
"A big thank you to everyone who believes in and supports Spark. It is a truly unique and special place because of the people that make up the community."
