MRDF Director moving on after 12 years

The Chief Executive of MRDF, Kirsty Smith, is to leave the organisation after 12 years. Kirsty will take up the role as CEO of CBM (formerly known as the Christian Blind Mission), an agency working to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities in developing countries.

Under Kirsty’s leadership, MRDF’s annual income has doubled and it has established
long-term development programmes in 19 of the world’s poorest countries.

‘After 12 incredibly happy and inspiring years at MRDF, it’s time to move to new pastures,’ said Kirsty. ‘This role has offered so much challenge and opportunity for growth, and I have been hugely fortunate with the amazing colleagues (staff, partners, Trustees, volunteers and supporters) that I have worked alongside. But the opportunity has now arisen for me to take on an exciting new role in my home town, which will both challenge me professionally and allow me to spend more time with my children.’

‘MRDF is such a special organisation because it reaches those not reached by others and is willing to take calculated risks – ‘leaps of faith’. I will carry many fond memories with me, including the amazing resourcefulness of the people I have met at MRDF-funded projects, our inspirational partner staff, and our UK supporters and donors, who are so far removed from the action on the ground yet so committed to the cause. I will also remember the MRDF board members who have offered so much advice and support.’

David Lewis, Chair of MRDF’s Trustees, said: ‘Kirsty has been an outstanding Chief Executive of MRDF and will be sorely missed. However, she leaves MRDF at a time when it is stronger than ever, thanks to her leadership.’

Kirsty will continue as Director of MRDF until September 2012. Recruitment for a successor will begin shortly.

25.6.12