The Board of Trustees at Community360 is pleased to announce the appointment of Cris Huddleston as substantive Chief Executive Officer.  

This follows an impressive three-month period as Chief Operating Officer and then interim CEO, bringing about huge change in the organisation.  

Cris brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as a trustee of the charity for four years before joining the executive team as Chief Operating Officer on 18 November. Following the former CEO’s departure due to medical reasons, she stepped into the position of Interim CEO with a clear vision to strengthen and transform Community360. 

Today, Board Chairman Stewart Thomson welcomed Cris to the role and said: “I am delighted with the appointment of Cris Huddleston as the new substantive CEO.  

“Since joining us in November, as interim chief executive, Cris has worked tirelessly at engaging with the board, staff, volunteers, partners and the wider community.  

“She has begun by regaining their trust and confidence so we can continue to deliver high quality programmes and services to those in greatest need. “

“I look forward to working with her in the next coming months.” 

With extensive experience in global non-governmental organisations, Cris brings the skills and leadership needed to guide this vital community charity.

She said: “I am beyond delighted in becoming the next leader for Community360.  

“This opportunity comes with both challenges and rewards, and I am committed to guiding the organisation in its mission to serve the community effectively. 

“Building strong relationships with our team, volunteers, partners, and community members will be at the heart of my approach. I will prioritise collaboration and open communication, ensuring that together, we drive meaningful change. 

“We will measure our success by the positive impact we create, as we improve the lives of the individuals and communities we support.”

Experience

Cris’ previous roles include serving as President of the Board of Trustees for Justice and Care Romania and as Director of European Operations for Justice and Care, an organisation dedicated to combating modern slavery. 

Having grown up in Romania, Cris developed a deep awareness of the systemic challenges faced by individuals living in poverty, those experiencing domestic violence, and missing children. Reflecting on her career journey, she said: “I have pursued educational and professional opportunities that have enabled me to develop the infrastructures needed to address these critical issues. My focus has been on implementing an inclusive model that fosters strong and sustainable partnerships. 

“Over the past decade, I have had the privilege of working to bridge gaps in the social justice system, ensuring that organisations prioritise the fight against human trafficking and modern slavery, with victims placed at the heart of decision-making.” 

A vision for Community360’s future 

Over the coming year, Cris will strengthen relationships with key stakeholders and lay the groundwork for the charity’s future. She said: “One of my top priorities is to actively engage with our allies and critical friends. Community360 has always played a pivotal role in the community, and it is essential that we secure its future. By listening to feedback and working collaboratively, I aim to reinforce trust and establish new partnerships based on shared values and clear strategic goals. 

“By April, I am confident we will have a strong foundation in place. This will encompass robust strategies for fundraising, communications, and engagement, as well as enhancements in governance, risk management, and organisational culture.”