In mid-May YMCA bid a fond farewell to chief executive Peter Fergusson. After seven years at the helm of YMCA Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga, Peter made the tough decision to accept an opportunity as CEO with the Leukaemia and Blood Cancer Foundation. 

During his time with the YMCA Peter forged many strong relationships with our valued partners. These partnerships have been key to YMCA's continual success, and a critical part of our ability to deliver a positive impact into the communities in which we operate.  

Peter was a fantastic champion for everything the YMCA stands for, and for our vision to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities. This was reflected in the expansion of our Raise Up youth development programme, and the established of the Jumpstart diabetes and health management programme in conjunction with Pharmaco. 

He was also very adept at growing YMCA’s programmes and services across everything from fitness to before and after school care, and our fundraising activities. Peter’s passion for the YMCA has infected many staff, and he leaves a great legacy. 

The YMCA Board of Directors will shortly commence recruitment for a new CEO. This signals an exciting new chapter for YMCA as we look to grow the impact we have in communities across Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty. 

To ensure a smooth transition, YMCA Board Chair Andrew Howard will be leading the organisation and working with our senior leadership team as Executive Chairperson until such time as a new CEO is appointed.  

We look forward to keeping you up to date with all the exciting things happening across the YMCA. Thanks for coming on the journey.

Best wishes

Andrew Howard

YMCA Board Chair