Introducing Our New Chair Of Trustees: Ian Adams MBE

YMCA St Paul’s Group, a major charity supporting young and vulnerable people and local communities across London, is delighted to announce the appointment of Ian Adams MBE as its new Chair of Trustees. Ian brings extensive senior leadership experience across the NHS, central and local government, and the charity sector.

He takes over as Chair of YMCA St Paul’s Group alongside a portfolio of governance and community‑focused roles. Ian is employed as Director of Corporate Affairs at NHS Resolution, having previously held senior roles in policy, strategy, communications, and stakeholder engagement across national bodies and government agencies. He also previously served for 20 years as a Councillor on Westminster City Council. A dedicated advocate for equality and social inclusion, Ian has been appointed MBE for services to LGBTQ+ people and the community in Westminster. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (FCIM) and the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA). He also holds an MBA (Distinction) and an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Bradford.

Looking ahead, YMCA St Paul’s Group is entering a new phase of ambition under Ian’s leadership. With Ian’s extensive experience in governance, communications and social justice, YMCA St Paul’s Group is well positioned to advance its mission and deliver even greater impact for young people and communities across London.

Commenting on his appointment as Chair of Trustees, Ian Adams MBE said:

“I am tremendously excited to join YMCA St Paul’s Group, given our powerful social ethos and the remarkable support we provide to some of the most vulnerable and young adults in our communities. I am pleased to be joining a strong and capable Board, and look forward to working with them, the executive team and staff in helping to put our customers at the heart of everything we do as a charity.”

Richard James, CEO of YMCA St Paul’s Group, adds:

“We are delighted to welcome Ian as Chair of the Board. His extensive experience and governance expertise will be invaluable. As we continue to pursue our mission at a pivotal time for YMCA, I look forward to collaborating with him to expand our impact on young people and communities throughout London”.

YMCA St Paul’s Group also extends its sincere thanks to outgoing Chair of Trustees, Helen Brewer, who is stepping down after three years of dedicated service. During her tenure, Helen has provided steady leadership, strong governance, and unwavering commitment to the organisation’s mission. Under her leadership, YMCA St Paul’s Group navigated a tricky operating environment and changing regulatory landscape but retained its G1 V2 grading from the RSH and was also certified as a Great Place to Work™. Throughout her tenure as both Board member and Chair, Helen was a passionate advocate for YMCAs young people and residents. The Board and Executive Team express their deep gratitude for Helen’s exceptional contribution and wish her well for the future.

YMCA St Paul’s Group is a charity supporting and empowering young and vulnerable people across London through life-changing youth work, vital community services and specialist-supported housing for those at risk of homelessness. The vision is to create places where young people thrive, and communities flourish.

As one of London’s largest providers of specialist-supported accommodation, YMCA St Paul’s Group provides a safe place to stay for around 1,600 residents each night.