Stephanie Patrick, Chief Executive Officer
Stephanie Patrick joined WAY as Chief Executive in August 2021. Before that, she was Acting Chief Executive Officer at YMCA Sutton Coldfield, where she had worked for 20 years.
“I was drawn to WAY because my brother was widowed in his early 30s, so I understand some of the challenges that come with being widowed at a young age. Having witnessed the devastation that the loss of my sister-in-law had on my brother and his children, I understand the difference which having a peer-to-peer network can make and am extremely committed to ensuring that our members are best able to access this. Unfortunately, we did not know about WAY when my brothers wife died and so it is incredibly important to me to continue to extend WAY’s reach and ensure anyone who needs WAY is able to find it.”
Starting her career as a professionally qualified youth worker, Stephanie has nearly 30 years’ experience of working within the third sector and has substantial experience of strategic leadership and organisational growth. She has led, managed and delivered a wide range of services for vulnerable young people, including services for young carers, children and adults with learning disabilities.
“Making a difference is what drives me and I want my work to help people who have tragically lost their partner at a young age to piece their lives back together and be able to move forward with purpose and hope.”
In her previous role, Stephanie attracted around £700,000 per year of funding through bid and tender writing, partnership working and other fundraising opportunities – experience that is invaluable to her role with WAY.
Stephanie works closely with WAY’s Board of Trustees and WAY’s wonderful team of staff and volunteers.