In this episode of Inspiring Working Lives, we speak with David Sollis, Chief Executive Officer of South East and Central Essex Mind, about community-led approaches to mental health and what effective leadership looks like in the charity sector.
David shares his career journey across the public and third sector, including senior leadership roles in health, youth services, and mental health organisations. He also discusses the challenges facing mental health services today, and why stronger community connections are key to improving support and outcomes for people.
Tune in to hear a thoughtful and practical conversation on mental health services, leadership, and the power of community to change lives.
Dan Taylor
Managing Director at Morgan Hunt
I am the Managing Director of Morgan Hunt and Pentagon Talent and have held this position since January 2017. Over that period, I have overseen a full-scale change programme that has led to a more defined offering to the businesses long standing clients, a full change of brand, a new CRM and several adoptions of new and innovative tech and the opening of a new business in Scotland. All this has contributed to returning this long-standing business to profit.
In 2023, Morgan Hunt was awarded the NORA award for best large recruitment business for Morgan Hunt’s online presence, The Financial Times listed Morgan Hunt as one of the top 30 British Recruitment Companies and The Recruiter Magazine will feature Morgan Hunt in their Fast 100 for 2023.
I have worked within staffing and recruitment for 28 years. I am a major supporter of APSCo, attending many events throughout the year. I am a firm advocate for greater professionalism within the recruitment industry.
Married with two daughters, outside work interests include playing the drums and supporting the Sussex Cricket Foundation by creating greater access to the sport of cricket within the City of Brighton and Hove.
David Sollis
Chief Executive Officer of South East and Central Essex Mind
A launcher and leader of innovative services, my profile spans a broad array of senior positions, qualifications and voluntary contributions. Building on career foundations in insurance, I found success in academic and vocational education with a PhD in Theology.
For the past 15 years, I have operated within the third sector, delivering optimal outcomes for hundreds of beneficiaries through membership groups, community projects, income generation and fund raising. Currently, I lead a reputed, impactful health & social care charity as its CEO. The role enables me to influence the landscape of health & social care in Essex, and I have led at the highest strategic level, covering integrated care systems, health & wellbeing boards and as a leader within the Essex Assembly. In 2017, I received a Patient Experience Network National Award for my portfolio of work as Engagement Manager of the Year.
I pride myself on a commitment to my voluntary roles, which include acting as Chairman of Achievement Through Football, a successful sport for development charity in Southend on Sea. Recently, I have been appointed as a trustee for Active Essex, and I am a member of the St Johns Church PCC, supporting a children’s home and sustainable farm in Romania.
