Andrew Jackson Appointed as Upbeat's New CEO

Upbeat Communities have appointed a new CEO, to replace its founder, Karina Martin.

“The Directors of Upbeat Communities are delighted to announce, upon completion of a robust recruitment process, that Andrew Jackson has been appointed as the new CEO of the charity. We sincerely wish Andrew well in his new post and are excited about the next chapter in Upbeat’s development under Andrew’s leadership”.

Andrew has been involved with Upbeat Communities for over twelve years, including as a volunteer and a company director. He has worked in the refugee sector for the last fifteen years, including with Refugee Action and The Regional Refugee Forum North East, with a particular focus on community development. Andrew's most recent role was Development Manager for Upbeat Communities, overseeing a number of projects, as well as fundraising and communications.

Andrew is passionate about seeing those seeking sanctuary empowered to rebuild their lives as well as contributing to the communities they now call home.

Andrew says "I love Upbeat Communities and everything it stands for; bringing hope, building community and empowering individuals. I am so happy to be able to bring my passion for working with those seeking asylum, as well as my experience of organisational development and fundraising, and lead this great charity into its next stage of development".

The new CEO is taking over an organisation that has seen rapid growth in the last three years and has seen the team expand from three part-time members to a staff team of thirteen, and more than fifteen sessional tutors.

Andrew says "Upbeat Communities has been developed under the inspiring vision and guidance of its founder Karina Martin, and my desire is to see the charity continue to grow and see fruitfulness, providing support and community to the many refugees and asylum seekers that call Derby and Derbyshire home".

Karina Martin has stepped down from her role with Upbeat Communities to lead Welcome Churches, a new charity that is working to equip churches across the UK to welcome refugees. For more information visit www.welcomechurches.org.