Fiona Blacke to leave National Youth Agency

Blacke, who became NYA chief executive in August 2007, is to retire at the end of March due to long-term ill health. 

In a statement published on the NYA website, Blacke said: “It has been my privilege to lead NYA over the past seven plus years and to work with a team with such passion and commitment. Of course the journey has not been without its challenges, particularly in the current economic climate, but despite this NYA has always remained solidly committed to delivering youth work programmes, making transformational impacts on the lives of thousands of young people.

“I will always be a passionate advocate for youth work and for this organisation.”

Blacke spent 18 years as a youth work volunteer in Edinburgh before becoming chief executive of Connexions Tees Valley in 2002. She later became executive director of the Learning and Skills Council, and then director of learning, planning and performance for Yorkshire and the Humber.

During her time leading NYA, Blacke has overseen its transition from a grant-dependent organisation to a social enterprise.   

NYA’s chair of trustees, David Finlay, said: “During her time as chief executive Fiona reshaped the organisation and established a renewed focus on securing future youth work programmes. She has been a great support to me as chair, and her experience and insight will be much missed.”

Jon Boagey has been appointed acting chief executive.