Our Senior Leadership Team is responsible for implementing Brunelcare’s strategy and day-to-day management of the charity.
Oona Goldsworthy: Chief Executive
Oona became the Chief Executive of Brunelcare in October 2019 and was previously CEO of United Communities, a community based housing association in Bristol.
Oona is deeply committed to enhancing housing options for older adults, and advocating for safe, high-quality homes with excellent care services. She also serves as a Board member for the National Care Forum and Care and Support West, is co-chair of the Bristol One City Homes Board and is a Trustee at mental health charity, Second Step.
Mandy Collins: Director of Corporate Governance
Mandy is a Chartered Fellow of the Institute of Internal Auditors and CIA, QIAL and SIRM systems and risk management professional with over 35 years experience in the public and private sector. Mandy joined Brunelcare in 2019 to support the Board to develop and embed strengthened corporate governance arrangements. Mandy has worked as a policy lead, regulator, auditor and investigator and is extremely proud to be working for Brunelcare.
Sandra Payne MBE: Director of Nursing & Care Services
Trained at the Bath School of Nursing, qualifying in 1986. Worked in acute medical admission wards at the RUH, medical cardiology at the Bristol Royal Infirmary and as a District Nurse in South Bristol. Joined Brunelcare in 1993 as a Registered Nurse at Robinson House, initially in a bank nurse role whilst raising two daughters! Became a Senior Registered Nurse and completed further studies at King Alfred’s, Winchester, then progressed through to Deputy Care Home Manager, Care Home Manager and Head of Clinical Excellence for the charity. Has led initiatives in End of Life Care and Falls Management and is also the Safeguarding Lead for the Charity. Sandra was appointed Care Homes Director in July 2019. In recognition for services to social care during the Covid-19 pandemic, Sandra was awarded an MBE in the 2020 Queen’s Birthday Honours list.
Brian Whittaker: People & Organisational Development Director
Brian joined Brunelcare in February 2018. Previously he was the Group HR Director of The Aster Group, a social landlord and care and support provider based in Wiltshire. He has extensive experience within human resources including several years as the Employee Relations Manager for Forte Hotels. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. Outside work he is a football referee, an enthusiastic cook and a reticent house renovator.
Michelle Richards: Housing and Property Director
Michelle began her career with Brunelcare in 1999, starting as a care assistant within one of the care homes. She was appointed as a care home manager before moving to Brunelcare’s housing division and managing the support services. Michelle was appointed as Brunelcare’s Housing and Property Director in 2018. She has a Level 5 Diploma in Housing with the Chartered Institute of Housing and is a chartered member of the institute.
John Rew: Director of Finance & Digital Services
John joined Brunelcare in March 2023 after five years of working as Director of Finance and Support Services at the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust. As a Fellow Chartered Accountant, he has a wealth of experience and knowledge in senior finance positions in charities and commercial organisations, including St Joseph’s Hospice, The Fairtrade Foundation and Christian Aid.