Why it matters: After nearly 20 years at the helm, Baxter has stepped down, with Deputy CEO Andy Crump appointed by trustees to lead the Suffolk-based charity into its next chapter.
The big picture: Under Baxter's leadership, Inspire has grown from its formation to become "one of the region's most acclaimed youth charities," supporting thousands of young people through major challenges, including the cost-of-living crisis and the global pandemic.
What's happening: As of yesterday (1 September), Baxter will move into an advisory role to support the handover before officially leaving Inspire at the end of the year. Crump, who has worked with the organisation since its beginning and served as Deputy CEO for five years, will officially assume the CEO role on 1 September.
What they're saying: Reflecting on his decision, Baxter said: "It has been an immense privilege to lead Inspire. Together, we've changed thousands of lives for the better, and that has only been possible thanks to the dedication of our people, past and present. Inspire is in a strong position, and it feels like the right time to hand over the reins. I know Andy will continue to take the organisation from strength to strength."
Chair of Trustees Terry Hunt praised Baxter's legacy: "Terry Baxter has been an outstanding leader of our charity for almost two decades, taking it through some challenging times to become the important, thriving organisation it is today. Many thousands of vulnerable young people have been supported by Inspire during Terry's tenure. It is an incredible achievement, and he should be very proud of his legacy."
Hunt added: "The board are delighted to appoint Andy to the CEO role. His long experience and deep understanding of Inspire and its work will set him in good stead, and I look forward to working with him."
About Inspire: The dedicated youth charity empowers under-25s to achieve a better future through education programmes, wellbeing services, sports activities and career guidance. Core services include youth education and development, one-to-one support and advice, sport and holiday clubs, wellbeing and mental health services, and youth clubs and social spaces.
The bottom line: Crump's appointment signals continuity for the charity's mission while bringing fresh energy to support young people across Suffolk, ensuring Baxter's two-decade legacy of transformation continues under experienced leadership.
