Collective Voice appoints new Chief Executive

Collective Voice is delighted to announce the appointment of Jess Mullen as its new Chief Executive. Jess is currently Director of Influence and Communications at Clinks, the national charity supporting the voluntary sector working in the criminal justice sector. She brings a wealth of experience from multiple policy and communications roles at Clinks and a period as Acting Co-CEO. She is also a trustee of Hackney Council for Voluntary Services.

Jess said: “Under Oliver’s leadership Collective Voice has established itself as a respected advocate for effective, evidence-based and person-centred support for people with drug and alcohol issues. I am thrilled to be able to build on this solid foundation and lead the organisation in its next phase.

At a time of fresh investment and focus from government I am excited to bring to Collective Voice my passion for social justice and the vital role of the voluntary sector in shaping policy and practice to support people to improve their lives. I look forward to championing the knowledge and expertise of drug and alcohol treatment and recovery charities and facilitating engagement, learning and partnerships across the system so that opportunities to transform lives and communities can be realised.”

Collective Voice Chair Lea Milligan said: “I am delighted to welcome Jess to Collective Voice. Jess is well known by many across the sector as an impressive senior leader who has helped to shape national polices and impact the lives of many people through her influential work. I have no doubt her passion, gravitas and knowledge will lead to great steps forward in our next phase, building on the significant achievements made in recent years under Oliver’s leadership. During the cost of living crisis it is vital that Collective Voice continues to ensure that the services offered to those most in need are supported, enhanced and expanded.”

Outgoing Director Oliver Standing is taking up the position of Director of Communications and External Affairs at Humankind.

He said: “It’s been a privilege and a pleasure to have led Collective Voice for the past four and a half years. Working as a team the supportive board and small but brilliant staff team have developed Collective Voice from a collaborative policy project into a national charity with a high profile, an array of projects, and great relationships with government officials, commissioners and providers. I am confident I am leaving the organisation in safe hands with the appointment of Jess who has a huge amount to offer. I wish her all the best and look forward to contributing to ambitious collaboration in my new role”.