The local infrastructure charity Community360 has promoted its chief operating officer to chief executive after a brief period as interim head.

Cris Huddleston, who joined the charity as COO in November, became interim chief after Tracy Rudling took early retirement because of ill-health.

Huddleston was a trustee at the charity for four years before becoming its COO.

Before joining Community360, she worked at the modern slavery prevention charity Justice and Care as its European operations manager and director of European operations in England, then becoming president of the charity’s board at its Romanian branch.

“This opportunity comes with both challenges and rewards, and I am committed to guiding the organisation in its mission to serve the community effectively,” Huddleston said.

“Building strong relationships with our team, volunteers, partners and community members will be at the heart of my approach.

“I will prioritise collaboration and open communication, ensuring that together, we drive meaningful change.”

Community360 said that having grown up in Romania, Huddleston developed a deep awareness of the systemic challenges faced by individuals living in poverty, those experiencing domestic violence and missing children.

“I have pursued educational and professional opportunities that have enabled me to develop the infrastructures needed to address these critical issues,” she said. 

“My focus has been on implementing an inclusive model that fosters strong and sustainable partnerships.

“Over the past decade, I have had the privilege of working to bridge gaps in the social justice system, ensuring that organisations prioritise the fight against human trafficking and modern slavery, with victims placed at the heart of decision-making.”

Huddleston said she was committed to strengthening relationships with key stakeholders and laying the groundwork for the charity’s future this year.

“Community360 has always played a pivotal role in the community, and it is essential that we secure its future,” she said.

“By listening to feedback and working collaboratively, I aim to reinforce trust and establish new partnerships based on shared values and clear strategic goals.

“By April, I am confident we will have a strong foundation in place.

“This will encompass robust strategies for fundraising, communications and engagement, as well as enhancements in governance, risk management and organisational culture.”