Following the abrupt resignation of its chief executive officer, the United Way of Chatham-Kent has appointed an interim replacement.
The organization’s board of directors has voted to appoint Maureen Geddes as interim CEO, effective September 20. Geddes, who joined the board in June, resigned her position as board director to take over the interim role.
“The United Way in Chatham-Kent is an organization that’s very close to my heart,” said Geddes in a news release. “I’m honoured to continue the good work we do in the community and to gear up for a busy and exciting season.”
Geddes has had several advocacy and leadership roles throughout her career, including being the founder of the Cultural Coalition of Chatham-Kent, a former instructor at the University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus, a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice (DEIJ) coach, and an advisor through Geddes Global, a strategic consulting firm.
The decision to appoint Geddes comes two weeks after former CEO Barbara Palace tendered her resignation after less than two years in the role. No explanation for her departure was provided.
The United Way has not indicated when or if a search for a permanent replacement will take place.
