Popular figure at Harrogate's Supporting Older People to retire after 13 years at the charity

A well-known Harrogate charity has announced that it is searching for an experienced and passionate new team leader after the planned retirement of the charity’s current Director.

The upcoming vacancy follows plans by Kate Rogata, who has been with Supporting Older People since 2013, to retire from the role on March 31, 2027.

To ensure continuity of services and a smooth handover, the successful candidate will take up the post by mid-March 2027.

The new director will be expected to support Supporting Older People’s dedicated volunteer network and steer the organisation into its next chapter of community service across Harrogate and Knaresborough.

Supporting Older People plays an essential frontline role across the district, tackling loneliness and social isolation among older residents.

Supported by a dedicated staff team and around 94 volunteers, the organisation delivers a vital one-to-one befriending service alongside group social activities and community outings designed to keep older people connected, supported and engaged.

The incoming Director will lead day-to-day operations, support staff and volunteers, and collaborate closely with the Board of Trustees on strategic planning, financial oversight, risk management, and good governance.

Key priorities include nurturing relationships with existing funders, securing fresh grant and trust income, and strengthening partnerships with local authorities, community groups, and service providers.

Candidates should bring proven experience of leading or managing within a charity, community organisation or similar setting, alongside a demonstrated track record in securing and managing trust and grant funding.

The position requires a self-motivated, hands-on leader with strong relationship-building skills, sound financial and administrative understanding, and an empathetic commitment to improving the lives of older people.

Key Details

The role is part-time, offering circa 30 hours per week with flexible and hybrid working arrangements considered.

Application Process

Applications close on Sunday 15 November 15, 2026, with interviews scheduled across the weeks commencing November 26 to December 4, 2026.

To apply, candidates should submit a CV of no more than two pages and a covering letter explaining their interest in the role and what they would bring to SOP to the Chair of Trustees, Peter Hannon, at [email protected].

Anyone wishing to have an informal conversation about the post prior to applying is also invited to contact Peter via the same email address.