We’d like to extend our warmest thanks to William Howarth, who retires as our Chief Financial Officer in November, after more than a decade spent helping us grow and evolve as an organisation. Quite frankly, we couldn’t have done it without him!
James Blake, YHA’s chief executive, says: “William has made a huge contribution to YHA in his 13 years with us – overseeing the most successful period in YHA’s recent history: taking us from a turnover of £35m when he joined in 2008 to £51m in 2019, and from an organisation in financial decline to one of steady growth. More recently we have had cause to be particularly grateful for these firm foundations, as William has steered the YHA ship calmly through the most troubled financial waters of our history.
“He is driven by our mission and values, and anyone who has ever spoken with him will know how these twin concerns shine through all that he does. In his role he is of course a boss to some, but a colleague and a friend to many, and a reassuring presence to us all in times good and bad. He will leave very big shoes to fill.”
William himself, meanwhile, has this to say. “At the heart of YHA is the charitable object which says this is an organisation for all, but especially young people. There have been no better moments than seeing our hostels full and providing the opportunity to explore, often for the first time, the beautiful landscapes and iconic cities of England and Wales.”
We’d like to wish William the best of luck for the next chapter in his life.
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