Charly O’Brien appointed as New Programme Team Leader

Charly O’Brien has been appointed to lead the Cheshire Scout’s Programme Team

Dave Hopley, County Lead Volunteer said: “I am delighted to have appointed Charly O’Brien as Programme Team Leader for Cheshire Scouts who takes on the baton from Graham Proctor. Charly is a dedicated high-energy leader, who will ensure Cheshire Scout’s continues to lead the way with an outstanding Programme. The County Programme Team supports Section programmes, this includes networking and peer support and promoting and supporting top awards in all Sections.”

Charly’s Scouting journey began at a young age, driven by her family’s involvement. She officially joined as an Explorer and gradually transitioned into adult leadership, starting as a Group Skills Instructor and later becoming the Youth Commissioner for Alderley District. During this time, she earned the Queen’s Scout Award.  In 2021, she was appointed the role of Assistant County Commissioner (Scouts) and joined the UK Contingent management team for Roverway 2024 in 2022.

Professionally, Charly is a Programme Designer for The Scouts. Outside of Scouting, Charly can be found outside, either in the hills, on the water, with friends or training the dog!

On her appointment Charly said: “My journey of having supported the Scout Section within the Programme team for the last couple of years has been immensely rewarding, but I’m excited to step up and guide the team into its next chapter. Together, we’ll empower our leaders to provide #SkillsForLife, foster opportunities, and ensure Cheshire Scouts continues to flourish.”

Dave Hopley added: “I’d also like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to Graham Proctor for his outstanding leadership of the Programme Team over the past two and a half years. Graham has brought an infectious enthusiasm and energy to the role and supported all sections in development forums, programme initiatives, award coaching and section-specific events. Projects including the BTEC partnership with CVQO, the GAIA Cub sleepover, and the Explorer Belt expedition to Europe this Summer to name but a few. Whilst Graham has decided the time is right to move on from this role, he will be continuing as an Assistant Explorer Leader in South West Cheshire and as Musical Director for Crewe Gang Show and helping Team Cheshire in a support role with events and activities.”