Clodagh McGurrin, CEO

Since being at school I have had an interest in Social Work and in particular working with people who have disabilities.

When I left school I spent a year working for the National Autistic Society in Norfolk where I lived in a service and supported a number of individuals who had a diverse range of support needs. I went on to study at MMU (BA Applied Community Studies) and Salford University (Diploma in Social Work), whilst doing this I worked as a Support Worker and saw the difference good quality person centred support can make to the lives of people who have disability.

I have been managing Supported Living Services since 1998 when I worked for Manchester Mencap. I joined Ordinary Lifestyles in 2005 initially as Training Manager, becoming a Registered Manager in 2013 and now I have been given the opportunity to combine that role with that of Chief Executive Officer. My role is to provide leadership to the charity and to be responsible for the management and administration of the charity within the strategic policy and accountability frameworks agreed by the Board of Trustees.

I love having the opportunity to work with the people we support and have worked alongside some really dedicated staff who go above and beyond their duties to provide an excellent service.

Outside of work I am kept busy with my family, a failed guide dog called Hazel and a successful farm cat called Jesse.  My hobbies include poultry farming, 80’s music and live theatre, especially musicals – my favourite is Wicked!