New Chairman of Trustees at Groundwork

John Bland

John Bland, Treasurer and Deputy Clerk at Greater Manchester Waste Disposal Authority (GMWDA), has been appointed as Chairman of Trustees at regeneration charity Groundwork.

Groundwork supports people of all ages and backgrounds to help them change their own life whilst bringing beneficial changes to the wider community.

As Chairman of Trustees, John will head up a board of Trustees in making strategic decisions about the future of Groundwork in Rochdale, Bolton, Bury and Oldham.

Mr Bland said: “I am honoured and delighted to be asked to take on the role of chairman of the Board. Groundwork has an excellent track record of delivery and all who work with us in partnership rate us highly. At its simplest, success means that we need to continue to deliver what we say we will, and grasp new opportunities.”

Mr Bland has been a member of the Groundwork board of Trustees since February 2011. John replaces Richard Tang, Managing Director of Rochdale internet firm Zen Internet, who has stepped down after six years as Chairman of the Trust.

Vicki Devonport, Executive Director at Groundwork paid tribute to Mr Tang and welcomes the appointment of Mr Bland.

Ms Devenport said: “My thanks to Richard for his time, commitment and support over the years to the Trust. Richard joined the Board at the time when the Trust was facing some significant challenges. With his leadership and direction, the Trust has become stronger and more focused on meeting customer needs.

“I am confident that John will continue to steer the Trust in the forward direction we have been moving for the last six years and look forward to working with him.”

Groundwork provides training and creates jobs, reduces energy and waste, re-connects people with nature and transforms green spaces, community assets and whole neighbourhoods.

Groundwork is an independent charity operating in, and for the good of, local people but part of a national federation of Groundwork Trusts.