Liz Thomas MBE Liz has 20 years experience of working in social economy organisations and has participated in a wide range of local, national and regional initiatives and programmes. Main focus has been on start up and development of projects and programmes and in facilitation of cross sectoral and joint working initiatives and partnerships.

Experience:

• CEO at Renfrewshire CVS January 2001 – April 2005, Provision of support services, operational and strategic, to new and established voluntary/community organisations and social enterprises

• New Deal Development at SCVO 51-200 employees; Non-Profit Organization Management industry April 1998 – December 1999 (1 year 9 months) Development at local level of new Government initiative 'New Deal for Young People'

• Development Manager at CSV September 1988 – March 1998 (9 years 7 months) Development of personal and vocational training programmes for unemployed people and for staff and users of a wide range of other voluntary organisations. Development of projects for disadvantaged groups Interests Voluntary sector and social enterprise development, Groups and Associations Chairperson of SENscot (Social Entrepreneur Network Scotland) Director of Assist Social Capital, Director of Arts & Communities Scotland Voluntary sector representative on Careers Scotland Renfrewshire Local Area Board. Rotary Honors and Awards Member of the British Emprire (MBE) - New Year's Honours List 2002