Rainbows appoints a new chief executive

We have been hunting for a successor for Geoff Ellis, who announced his retirement in July and long term Rainbows supporter Andy Campbell (53), of Stapleton, took the helm from yesterday (5^th) and says he can’t wait.

“The place is just amazing,” said Andy. “I am really excited about what is ahead. Rainbows is wonderful and I have always loved it. When I heard Geoff was moving on, I thought the job seemed perfect for me.”

Andy’s first visit around the hospice was in 2010 when the Building for the Future project to create a £4m extension was taking shape. “I thought wow – the difference this place can make to families is incredible,” he said.

“I have lots of ideas for my new role at Rainbows – things we can develop and things that we might change; Geoff has done a fantastic job building Rainbows to where it is now and whatever we do, we mustn’t lose sight of what a fantastic place it is already.”

With a background in aeronautical engineering and system analysis, Andy and a business partner set up an IT consultancy company in 1992 before developing a software product for charities called thankQ. This was rolled out to more than 300 charities including Rainbows.

He said: “I have run a commercial business for years, working closely with a wide range of charities, helping them to be more effective, which has set me up for this role

“Over the years, I ran my own business and have done things for me; now it’s time to change; to do things for others. My father was a teacher, headmaster and a minister and he always had a job that gave something back to the community. I always wanted to do the same. The timing is absolutely right for this role for me.

“I can’t wait to get started. I don’t know what the next steps will be but I know it will be exciting.”

In his spare time Andy loves to paraglide as well as spending time travelling and walking with his wife, Nic, and two dogs. He also relishes time with his children and grandson.

Geoff Ellis added: “I wish Andy every success for the future and am delighted to welcome him to the role; I am confident that he will be a first class Chief executive for the hospice.

“Rainbows has more than doubled in size in the last seven years and provides care to children and young people with more complex needs than ever before. I feel hugely privileged to have been able to play my part in “Team Rainbows” working alongside the most dedicated staff and volunteers you could ever meet, I will miss them incredibly. During my tenure I have constantly been amazed by the generosity of our donors and supporters from across the East Midlands without whom we simply wouldn’t survive, and for that I thank you all.”