CEO of charity to step down after 30 years
The chief executive of Derby-based charity Disability Direct is set to step down after 30 years in the job.
Dr Amo Raju OBE DL will leave his position as CEO in three months but has pledged to continue to support the charity – taking up a new role as an ambassador.
Dr Raju, a disabled person himself, has been a trailblazer in disability services and is believed to be the longest-serving CEO of a disability charity in the UK.
His achievements include raising £30m to support various initiatives and ensure that many vulnerable individuals have a voice and access to essential services.
During his time at Disability Direct, he has completed over 75 projects, generating substantial income and creating numerous opportunities for disabled people.
The charity recently estimated that just two of the projects Dr Raju brought to the city of Derby, a disability benefits and social care support service, to date has raised the spending ability of disabled people and carers by £50m annually.
David Moss, chair of Disability Direct, said: “We are all incredibly sad to lose such a dedicated and inspiring CEO. Amo has been a towering and pioneering figure in the third sector and we are honoured his journey started with us which now continues on a national and international platform.
“Today we benefit from a vision he presented to trustees decades earlier, of a self-funding disability charity. His numerous awards and accolades are proof of the love and admiration he has gained from people across the UK. His leadership will be missed.
“However, we are equally delighted that he has agreed to be an ambassador for the charity which demonstrates his passion to see his organisation continue to flourish.”
In April 2023, Dr Raju launched The Blue Sky Social Care Card, an initiative aimed at recognising the invaluable role of carers across the UK. This card provides national discounts and perks, offering much-needed support and appreciation to those who care for others.
He said: “Disability Direct and Amo Raju developed in tandem. Our stories are so intertwined, and I owe all I have in my life to this symbiotic relationship which took a disabled person with low self-esteem to the heights of success and confidence I enjoy today.
“Today, the charity’s balance sheet is strong and there are opportunities ahead. It is however, time for fresh leadership with ideas to take the organisation forward and once the board appoint my successor, all have my unconditional blessings and support. I’m sure that not being in the driving seat will feel strange at first but the new role of ambassador will keep me connected to a charity which will always be at the centre of my heart.
“Thank you Disability Direct for all you do for disabled people and carers.”
