Appointment of new Chief Executive

After careful consideration of the needs of the organisation at this time the Board have decided to combine the roles of Head of Corporate Services and Chief Executive into a single post and to appoint Andy Durma as Chief Executive Officer of WERS. 

Andy has shown the qualities of a capable and committed leader having stepped up as interim CEO in May of this year. 

The Board would like to thank all the staff, volunteers, supporters and clients and especially Andy, for their understanding over the last few months as we worked to develop a forward plan.  

We have every confidence in Andy’s ability to take WERS forward and are delighted to name him as our new Chief Executive. 

- Board of Trustees

Andy said: "As someone who has experienced the journey of migration, I am deeply humbled by the trust the Board has shown in me. This is an incredible opportunity to take the helm of WERS and continue championing the rights of people seeking asylum and refugees.

I am committed to building on WERS' legacy of anti-racism and solidarity, working closely with all our stakeholders – especially our clients – to explore new ways to help them rebuild their lives in the North East and challenge the narrative surrounding migration”.