Karen Loftus
Chief Executive @Community Action Network
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WORK HISTORY
Chief Executive @Community Action Network
Dorset, GB
Provide overall executive leadership for a county-wide infrastructure organisation supporting voluntary, community, and social enterprise partners- Work in close collaboration with the Board of Trustees to set strategy, ensure strong governance, and deliver organisational sustainability- Lead organisational development to strengthen impact, partnership capability, and service delivery- Oversee financial planning, budgeting, and resource allocation to ensure long-term resilience- Build and maintain senior partnerships with the NHS, local authorities, education providers, and civil society leaders- Lead, develop, and inspire a diverse workforce of staff and volunteers, fostering an inclusive and high-performing culture- Represent the organisation at system-level forums, including health and wellbeing partnerships and place-based boards
EDUCATION
University of Plymouth
National Professional Qualification in Integrated Leadership, Masters
SKILLS
ABOUT KAREN LOFTUS
Strategic Chief Executive with extensive experience leading complex, mission-driven organisations across the voluntary, public, and health sectors. I am recognised for leading with integrity, compassion, and clarity while delivering strong governance, sustainable growth, and meaningful social impact.As Chief Executive of a local infrastructure charity, I work closely with trustees and senior stakeholders to build a resilient, high-performing organisation that strengthens practice, enables partnership working, and improves outcomes for communities. My leadership approach combines strategic oversight with a strong commitment to equity, collaboration, and accountability.Alongside my executive role, I bring significant board-level experience, having served as a Board Member at Bournemouth and Poole College and as a Staff Governor for NHS Dorset HealthCare. In these roles, I contribute to long-term strategy, risk management, organisational performance, and inclusive decision-making within highly regulated environments.My career spans the voluntary sector, NHS, education, and local systems leadership, where I have developed deep expertise in: • Executive leadership and governance • Board effectiveness and assurance • Financial oversight and sustainability • Leading diverse, multidisciplinary teams • Strategic partnerships across health, local government, and civil society • Public engagement and system-wide collaborationI currently lead a dedicated team of staff and volunteers serving communities across Dorset, working in close partnership with the NHS, local authorities, and voluntary and community organisations. I am also an active member of the Health and Wellbeing Board for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, contributing to place-based strategy and population wellbeing.I am passionate about sharing CEO and board-level insight, supporting leadership development, and collaborating with organisations seeking experienced, values-driven executive leadership.
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