Monday, July 22, 2024

What does strategic leadership look like?

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the fascinating world of charity strategy and leadership with Vicki Beevers, Chief Executive of The Sleep Charity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in the non-profit sector or interested in the intricacies of running a successful charity.


Vicki's journey into the world of sleep and charity is both personal and inspiring. She began her career as a teacher, working in special schools and dealing with challenging behaviours. However, it was her own struggles with her son's sleep issues that led her to delve into the world of sleep research. This passion eventually culminated in the founding of The Sleep Charity in 2012, an organisation dedicated to empowering people with sleep education and support.


One of the key takeaways from our conversation with Vicki is the critical importance of having a clear and well-thought-out strategy. Vicki emphasises that a charity's strategy should start with a clear vision. For The Sleep Charity, this vision is centred around empowering people with sleep education. By understanding sleep better, individuals can take steps to improve their own sleep health.

Vicki also highlights the importance of a tiered approach to intervention, recognising that people are individuals with unique needs. The Sleep Charity's strategy includes providing support in various formats, from written text to podcasts and direct conversations. This ensures that they can reach as many people as possible.

Another fascinating aspect of The Sleep Charity's strategy is their focus on training other professionals. By educating those who are on the front lines, such as NHS staff, the charity can extend its reach and impact far beyond what would be possible through direct services alone.

In addition to these practical elements, Vicki discusses the importance of research and campaigning. Despite the critical role that sleep plays in our health and wellbeing, it often doesn't receive the same attention as other health issues. The Sleep Charity works to raise awareness and push for better recognition of sleep's importance on a national level.

Our conversation also touched on the broader challenges facing charities today, particularly smaller ones. Vicki notes that many small charities struggle with resources and may not have the skills or capacity to develop a robust strategy. However, she stresses that having a clear strategy is vital to avoid mission drift and to ensure that the organisation remains focused on its core goals.

Vicki's insights are not just theoretical; they are grounded in her own experiences and challenges in leading a charity. From dealing with the impact of COVID-19 on their funding model to maintaining team morale and cohesion, Vicki's leadership is a testament to resilience, creativity, and strategic thinking.

Whether you're a charity leader, a volunteer, or simply interested in the third sector, this episode offers valuable lessons and inspiration. Vicki's story is a powerful reminder of the impact that a clear vision and strategic approach can have, even in the face of significant challenges.

Tune in to our latest episode to hear more from Vicki Beevers and to gain insights into the world of charity strategy and leadership. It's an episode filled with practical advice, inspiring stories, and a deep dive into the importance of sleep and wellbeing. Don't miss it!

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Episode 13 - Full Transcript

  LINKS TO ALL PODCAST PLATFORMS Welcome to the show Piers Townley: Hello and welcome to the Charity show, the podcast for Charity Insider...