ScoutsCymru has appointed Cardiff Metropolitan University’s director of student services Kirsty Palmer to chair its board.

Palmer, who starts in the role next month, has a decade worth of experience in higher education and has also spent the same period of time in the charity sector.

This included spending three-years as general secretary of the Woodcraft Folk and a stint as chief executive of Volunteer Centre Kensington and Chelsea. She also spent three years as development manager at Girlguiding UK.

She has also previously held board level roles in the sector, as vice chair of Greater London Volunteering and chair of Welsh Women’s Aid.

“Kirsty impressed us during the recruitment process with her understanding of the issues facing young people in Wales, her inclusive approach, her passion for volunteering, and her experiences as a trustee for other organisations,” said ScoutsCymru chief volunteer.

“She has already made a great impression on staff and volunteers, and we know she will have a hugely positive impact on the lives of young people and volunteers in Scouts across Wales.

Palmer added: “Having been an active trustee for over a decade across a number of organisations, as well as having a previous professional career working with volunteers and young people, I believe I have the right combination of skills and experience to support ScoutsCymru's ongoing development.

“Now, more than ever, young people need spaces and places where they can develop confidence, team-working, and a habit of community involvement, and I am proud to begin to play my part in that mission in Wales.”

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