Goodbye, Mairi, our servant leader

She’s done the washing-up, made the coffee, prepared for board meetings and led her team carefully through change. Her name is Mairi Johnstone, CEO of A Rocha UK. And sadly, she is leaving.

Head of the organisation for the past two years – having previously been its Finance and Administration Director – she moves on at the end of February to become CEO of the Methodist Ministers Housing Society.

Mairi’s journey through A Rocha UK started at a meeting with former Chair Richard Hall. He visited Mairi early in 2010 to persuade her to become a trustee. She ended up becoming CEO.

‘I’d never have thought it was possible for so much to suit one role,’ said Mairi, ‘strategist, lawyer, leader, preacher, manager – all sitting alongside my long held love of the natural world! Did Richard spot all of this?’

She said one of her greatest pleasures was how she’s been able to use that mix of her own qualifications and experience to help strengthen the organisation, particularly its financial base. ‘It’s been my absolute privilege to lead A Rocha UK through some very interesting times,’ said Mairi. ‘It was important for us, a couple of years ago, to develop a new strategy – and we did that.

‘We now have new projects, opportunities and partnerships. We have excellent plans in place so we can keep showing how it’s possible for Christians in the UK to make a real difference when it comes to conservation and environmental education – to be salt and light in the world.

‘Our supporters have been fantastic – prayerfully, practically and financially. I’m leaving this organisation in good heart and of course, it now has a place in my heart. A Rocha UK has changed me, and all my future work and influence is going to reflect that!’

Chair Steve Hughes said the organisation will be sorry to see Mairi go. ‘She leaves A Rocha UK in a good position strategically,’ he added. ‘The trustees are looking at how best to replace Mairi, and would appreciate your prayers at this time for them and for the team.’

Conservation Director Andy Lester said both the executive and wider teams would miss her. ‘She’s been a fantastic example of a servant leader,’ he explained, ‘as willing to get stuck in to the washing-up or coffee-making as preparing for board meetings or church talks.

‘She takes with her the warm best wishes and deep appreciation of all the team. We’re losing a fantastic CEO, but we’ve all made a great friend. And in true A Rocha UK style, we know Mairi will be back to volunteer!’