After two decades of dedicated service, Rachel Rowlands will step down as Chief Executive Officer of ACM at the end of August to take up an exciting new role as Director of Community Housing at Trivallis, a leading housing association based in Pontypridd.

While we are, of course, sad to see Rachel go, this is a moment of celebration and recognition. Her contribution - not just to ACM, but to the wider voluntary sector- has been nothing short of extraordinary. Her leadership, vision, and tireless commitment to improving the lives of older people have left an enduring legacy. Thanks to Rachel, ACM is in a strong and stable position, with solid foundations for the future.

Under her leadership, ACM has grown significantly in both reach and impact. Services have expanded, the charity’s voice has become stronger, and its connection to local communities has deepened. Maintaining and developing essential services - such as Hospital to Home and Information and Advice - has been a cornerstone of Rachel’s approach, ensuring older people continue to receive the right support, at the right time. Despite financial pressures and sector-wide uncertainty, ACM has consistently punched above its weight, delivering real and lasting impact.

There have been many standout moments during Rachel’s tenure - from how staff responded to devastating fire and flood damage at ACM’s Pontypridd office, to the organisation’s extraordinary efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. During those difficult months, ACM staff placed vulnerable people first, helping to save lives. In recognition of this effort, Rachel was named a finalist for the Chwarae Teg Womenspire Awards in 2021 - though, true to form, she credited the nomination to the dedication of her team.

A key strength throughout Rachel’s journey has been her commitment to collaboration. The strong relationships she has developed across the third sector, public bodies and community leaders have played a vital role in ACM’s success. While there are too many to mention individually, Rachel has often acknowledged the importance of a group of ‘anchor’ partners - trusted allies whose belief in ACM’s mission has made so much possible.

One of Rachel’s most transformative achievements is Cynon Linc. In 2016, she led the charity through a Community Asset Transfer, generating £3 million of investment and transforming a local authority day centre in Aberdare into a vibrant, multi-purpose community hub. Since opening in 2021, Cynon Linc has shown continual growth and now attracts more than 80,000 visits a year and houses a GP practice, bistro and coffee shop, children’s nursery, community spaces, Info Hub, a full activity programme, and ACM’s headquarters.

Reflecting on this milestone, Rachel said:

“Cynon Linc is testament to what can be achieved when people believe in a shared vision and work together to make it a reality. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how it brings people of all ages and backgrounds together. The atmosphere is so warm and welcoming - exactly what we hoped to create.”

Rachel’s third sector journey began in 1995 with the Care & Repair movement, where she progressed from a local agency role to Chair of Care & Repair Cymru, a position she held until 2018. In 2017, she was elected National Third Sector Representative on the Cwm Taf Morgannwg Regional Partnership Board, becoming Chair the following year and serving in that capacity for three consecutive terms. Most recently, in April 2024, she was appointed as an Independent Member (Community) of the Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board.

Reflecting on her time at ACM and the next chapter, Rachel said:

“I’ve been fortunate to enjoy autonomy and support over the past 20 years - freedom to push boundaries, to take risks, and to explore bold ideas. I’m incredibly grateful to the trustees who stood beside me throughout.

From a personal perspective, this new role offers a chance to grow, learn, and experience a new direction for what I hope will be the final 10 years of my working life. As difficult as the decision has been, it’s the right one, for Age Connects Morgannwg, and for me.”

Keiron Montague, Executive Director of Communities at Trivallis, welcomed Rachel’s appointment:

“We are delighted that Rachel Rowlands will be joining Trivallis as Director of Community Housing. She brings a wealth of leadership experience across housing, health, local government, and the voluntary sector - as well as a strong track record in building partnerships. Rachel will be a tremendous asset to our team.”

Rachel’s departure will be deeply felt by colleagues, partners, and the countless individuals and families whose lives she has helped to improve. As she moves into this exciting new role, we offer our heartfelt thanks for her outstanding service - and our very best wishes for the future.

Lynda Williams, Chair of the ACM board of trustees added their thanks: “It’s with a heavy heart that we prepare to say goodbye to our exceptional CEO, Rachel. Her remarkable talent and leadership have been recognised beyond our organisation, and she will be leaving us at the end of August to take on an exciting new role as Director of Community Housing at Trivallis. The board would like to wish Rachel every success in this next chapter. It’s a fantastic opportunity - and one she’ll embrace with her usual passion and determination.”

Best wishes Rachel, from the staff, trustees and volunteers of Age Connects Morgannwg.