Sensory Charity Appoints New CEO

Leading sensory charity DSN have announced the appointment of Mark Lunney as its new chief executive.

Mark, previously the CEO of Age UK Mid Mersey joins DSN having worked across Merseyside and parts of Halton and Warrington for over seven years supporting older people. Prior to this he was CEO of Lancashire Mind for over nine years.

Mark will lead the team of more than 75 staff and volunteers across both East and West Cheshire, Flintshire and Wrexham who support the complex needs of local people with a sensory loss. The organisation has been in operation for 45 years next year and has an enviable reputation from both service users and commissioners, based on its range of innovation and quality of care.

Mark said:

“It’s such a privilege to be taking on this role, especially as DSN reaches its 45th anniversary next year and enters a new chapter in its history.  I am honoured to work with such a fantastic team, and particularly proud of the reputation DSN has in our local community.

"It’s been a challenging time operating over the last seven months, as our staff had to adapt quickly whilst continuing to provide specialist, personalised care to our service users and tenants throughout the pandemic. I’m so proud that our teams have embraced the challenges that have come their way and have proactively sought solutions that mean those with a sensory loss are not overlooked."

Mark added: "The needs of our clients, their families and carers are at the heart of everything DSN does and that is so important to me. I know that even as we enter a period of change and exciting developments in our history, that ethos and purpose will always remain the same. I am really looking forward to leading the organisation through this next exciting chapter.”

Mark began his career in the Armed Forces working around the world and has a strong commercial and financial background.

After leaving the forces, he worked in finance roles in aviation at Manchester Airport and with British Aerospace in Saudi Arabia, prior to becoming a charity leader with Mind, the leading mental health charity and then Age UK.

His 16 years’ experience as a Chief Executive has encompassed mental health, ageing and now sensory loss.

Ben Colman chair of the board at DSN said:

“This is a great appointment at an exciting time for DSN. Mark brings considerable knowledge and experience to the role and we are delighted he will be leading the organisation as we enter our 45th year. We aim to focus our future based on evidence and research, to future proof meeting the needs of those who live with a sensory loss. His appointment is perfect timing, ahead of our AGM on 17^th November 2020.”

Pictured - Mark Lunney