After years of dedicated service, Lisa Hollyhead, the much-loved Chief Executive of Sight for Wight, has announced her retirement.
Lisa has led the Isle of Wight Society for the Blind since 2020, having first joined the charity in 2018.
With the charity marking its 160th anniversary this year, and Lisa celebrating her 55th birthday, she feels this is the right time to hand over the reins.
Tributes to Lisa’s leadership
Chair of the trustees, Sue Bungey, praised Lisa’s contribution, saying,
“Lisa has been an outstanding chief executive, making a profound difference with her tireless dedication and exceptional leadership.”
Sue highlighted the impact of Lisa’s personal experience, adding,
“Her lived experience has provided invaluable insights, ensuring our members receive the right support at the right time.”
She expressed gratitude on behalf of the organisation, saying,
“We are immensely grateful for her contributions and wish her all the best for the future.”
A trailblazer in finance and charity work
Lisa’s achievements extend beyond her role at Sight for Wight. In the early 1990s, she became the first registered blind woman in the UK to qualify as a chartered accountant.
She has now offered to assist in finding her successor to continue the legacy she has built at the charity.
Supporting Islanders with sensory loss
The Isle of Wight Society for the Blind is the Island’s oldest working charity, supporting more than 1,000 residents living with sensory loss. It provides essential services that help people live safely, confidently and independently.
The organisation operates two branches: Sight for Wight, which focuses on visual impairment support, and Wight Sense, which provides rehabilitation for both sight and hearing loss.
A vital role for the new CEO
The new Chief Executive will oversee a team of 15 staff members and more than 130 active volunteers. With over 550 weekly interactions, the charity provides free services, including long-term loan equipment for most clients.
The CEO will also manage Millbrooke Enterprise CIC, the charity’s trading arm, which includes the Newport-based dress agency, Dress for Less.
Fashion Show for charity
Dress for Less raises vital funds for the charity by selling high-quality, pre-loved ladies’ clothing on behalf of clients.
They are holding a fashion show this month, at Cowes Masonic Lodge on the 29th March (2pm-4.30pm), to help raise money for the charity and celebrate 160 years.
Lisa’s successor will have the opportunity to build on her work and ensure that Sight for Wight continues to offer essential support to the community.
Top image shows Lisa flying a plane for charity.
