New CEO for Fife advice charity

Fife’s leading advice group has a news chief executive.

David Redpath has taken over at the helm of Citizens Advice and Rights Fife (CARF) after the retiral of the long-serving Norma Philpott.

He took up his appointment at the beginning of this month, signalling a new are at the advice group.

Mr Redpath has been the organisation’s business and development manager for the past five years.

During that time he has also held money advice and financial inclusion remits, which gave him a strong understanding of the barriers that face individual clients who need to access help, and the challenges of providing face to face advice.

Mr Redpath said: With the help of the board and managers, I want to review and reshape our services, taking the learning and changes from the last few months as a result of coronavirus.

“This will mean developing appropriate digital approaches for a range of matters, creating a refreshed paid staff and volunteer experience, and putting the client constantly at the heart of our service.

“I will be leading and driving CARF forward as best I can.”

He also paid tribute to the retiring CEO.

Mrs Philpott leaves at the end of the month after 32 years of service - the last 18 as CEO.

He said: The achievements of CARF can be largely attributed to the CEO’s lead and direction over the years, which has ensured we are not only the go to provider of information and advice in Fife but that we enjoy a sound reputation nationally for innovation and development.

“Increasingly, we are seen as a mainstay in tackling poverty and inequality by Fife Council and others.

“During her tenure, Norma has ensured we are firmly rooted in strategic discussions and operational actions that address these issues.”

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Mrs Philpott said it had been a privilege to serve CARF.

She added: “I have seen first-hand the challenges and barriers that individuals face at different points of their lives.

“ I have also seen how important good information and advice can be – truly making a difference.

“It has been a privilege to work in Fife in the CAB service alongside paid staff and volunteers, partner organisations and with a range of funders locally and nationally.