New Thames Reach Chief Executive appointed

Director of Operations Bill Tidnam will replace Jeremy Swain, who is taking up secondment with the MHCLG

New Thames Reach Chief Executive appointed

Thames Reach has today announced that Bill Tidnam, Director of Operations, will replace Jeremy Swain as the new Chief Executive, whilst Jeremy takes up secondment with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) over the next year to lead the new Rough Sleeping Initiative Team.

Bill has been an integral member of the Senior Management Team since 2004 after starting with Thames Reach back in 2000. Since then, Bill has been responsible for a wide variety of projects and initiatives for Thames Reach, including a range of projects aimed at helping rough sleepers off the streets, tenancy sustainment, employment focused services, as well as work aimed at helping people with mental health problems to recover and stay well.

Bill said: “After 18 years with Thames Reach, I feel immensely privileged to step up as Chief Executive and look forward to leading this fantastic organisation along with our incredible staff, stakeholders, commissioners and partners.

“Looking ahead, it’s an exciting time for the charity and we will continue to develop our work to prevent homelessness and the damage it causes, as well as continue helping people in urgent need on the streets or elsewhere, and work with them to recover and find their place in the world.”

Bill has worked with homeless people since 1981, and with hands-on experience in day centres, hostels, supported housing and resettlement work; Bill brings a wealth of knowledge, understanding and expertise to the job.

Stephen Howard, Chair of Thames Reach said: “Bill is more than ready to step into this role and to ensure that the organisation continues to move forward for the next year, which we expect will be a significant one for Thames Reach.

“Bill brings long experience, passion for the work that Thames Reach does, a dedication to making our services as good as they can be, and is respected and trusted by Thames Reach’s partners and external stakeholders.

“At the same time, we wish Jeremy Swain every success in his role with MHCLG. He leaves a brilliant legacy, and we look forward to hearing more about his progress as he works on the Rough Sleeping Initiative.

Learn about Thames Reach services