Ormiston Families

Pure Executive is delighted to be partnering with Ormiston Families, a distinguished and long-standing charity based in the East of England, in the search for their next Chair of Trustees.

Established in 1981, Ormiston Families exists to support children, young people, and families experiencing hardship, trauma, or disadvantage. Their work is rooted in building emotional resilience, ensuring that every family they support can face the future with strength, hope, and dignity. In 2023/24, the charity directly supported over 5,100 families through the delivery of nearly 22,000 sessions of support, achieving this despite a 20% reduction in income.

Founded in memory of Fiona Ormiston Murray, who tragically passed away alongside her husband on their honeymoon, the charity was established to carry forward her legacy of compassion and care. Over four decades later, that vision continues to inform a wide range of impactful services designed to address complex social needs and strengthen communities across the region.

Context to the Chair Appointment

After nine years on the board, Gail Tolley will step down as Chair in Autumn 2026. Following the appointment of several new trustees in 2026 and a new Chief Executive in late 2025, this represents a compelling opportunity to join Ormiston Families at a pivotal point in its development.

With demand for services growing and the external environment becoming increasingly complex, the organisation is seeking a strategic and values-driven Chair to provide strong governance and support continued growth. This individual will play a key role in building on a proud legacy while enabling the charity to expand its reach and impact for children, young people and families in need.

To better illustrate the difference Ormiston Families makes, the video below shares the story of one of the families supported through its work: