YWCA Yorkshire has announced Diane Offers as the charity’s Chief Executive Designate, as Tracy Gollins prepares to step down after more than 30 years of leading the organisation. 

Tracy will officially pass the baton to Diane on 1st April 2025, following a carefully planned handover. During this transition period, Diane will work closely with Tracy to ensure a seamless change in leadership, building on the charity’s legacy of supporting vulnerable women, children, and families across South Yorkshire. 

Tracy Gollins has been at the helm of YWCA Yorkshire since 1993. Initially joining to develop and manage Peile House, Sheffield’s first hostel for homeless young women, Tracy quickly grew the organisation’s reach and impact. Under her leadership, YWCA Yorkshire expanded its services into Rotherham and Doncaster, where she worked with commissioners to design and develop new housing projects to meet the needs of teenage parents and vulnerable women across the region. 

As the charity’s first Chief Executive, Tracy has led YWCA Yorkshire through decades of growth - retaining key contracts at Peile House, Fleming Gardens, and Green Gables, whilst providing critical housing and support services to more than 250 women and their children each year. 

Although stepping down from her role as Chief Executive, Tracy will remain actively involved with YWCA Yorkshire. She will continue to support grant applications and bids, working alongside Diane, the Board of Trustees, and the charity’s dedicated team to secure funding for vital services. 

Diane Offers: A Proven Leader 

Diane Offers brings 18 years of experience with YWCA Yorkshire to her new role. Starting as an Administrator, she has taken on various roles, including Project Worker, Project Manager, and, since 2013, HR Manager. Over the years, Diane has led key growth and quality initiatives, including the charity’s wellbeing strategy, Investors in People accreditation, and volunteer programme. 

Diane’s range and breadth of experience, both as a front-line practitioner and strategic manager, puts her in a unique position to take the charity forward. Her career with YWCA Yorkshire has given her valuable insight into the real challenges faced by the people supported by YWCA Yorkshire, as well as the operational and strategic decisions needed to ensure that services remain effective and sustainable. 

Looking ahead, Diane will focus on engaging with new partners and supporters, recognising that all community members have a contribution to make in helping women and families achieve better futures. By strengthening relationships with local businesses, funders, and community organisations, Diane aims to expand the charity’s network of support, ensuring that YWCA Yorkshire remains at the forefront of delivering life-changing services. 

Follow Diane’s Journey 

From February onwards, Diane will be sharing her leadership journey through a weekly LinkedIn blog series as Chief Executive Designate. In these posts, Diane will reflect on her experiences shadowing Tracy, sharing insights and learning from staff, service users, volunteers, partners, and supporters. 

YWCA Yorkshire is entering an exciting new chapter, and with a new leadership structure in place, Diane’s vision for the future will maintain and build on Tracy’s legacy, ensuring the charity remains a lifeline for vulnerable women and families across South Yorkshire. 

Looking Ahead 

As YWCA Yorkshire transitions to new leadership, the organisation remains committed to its mission of providing safe spaces, practical support, and opportunities for women and families to rebuild their lives. With Diane Offers at the helm, the charity is well-positioned to grow its impact, adapt to future challenges, and continue creating better futures for those who need it most.