Julie Parker is to retire as the chief executive of Penhaligon’s Friends after more than 20 years at the charity.
Penhaligon’s Friends is based in Cornwall and provides free bereavement support, advice and resources for children up to the age of 18, their parents and carers.
Parker joined the charity in 2006 as its family services coordinator and was promoted to family services manager in 2009 before becoming chief executive in 2011, the charity said.
It said Parker’s role was renamed from family services manager to chief executive due to the growth of the team at the time.
“Having worked with Penhaligon’s Friends for 20 years, I recently took the decision to step back at Easter next year,” said Parker.
“I have been so grateful to have worked with many colleagues and volunteers over the years, who all share their experience, knowledge and skills with our charity, and for all the support and collaboration.
“I am feeling positive about the change, it will offer an opportunity for a new chief executive to work with the team to grow this wonderful local charity.”
Parker said: “Penhaligon’s Friends is in a really good position currently and with existing staff carrying their experience and history of the charity, it will continue to thrive and grow to meet the needs of our community here in Cornwall.”
Penhaligon’s Friends has started recruiting for its next chief executive, the charity said.