Senior Leadership Team
Meet the Nexus Senior Leadership Team
Senior Leadership Team
Meet the Nexus Senior Leadership Team
Meet the Nexus Senior Leadership Team
Our Senior Leadership Team (SLT) consists of our CEO, the Head of Professional Services and the Head of People and Organisational Development. As a team they are responsible for the effective leadership of the organisation. Providing clear strategic direction and governance in all areas across the organisation. Equipping and supporting Service Managers and their teams to thrive, by delivering excellent services which enable us to fulfil Nexus’ Vision of a society free from sexual abuse and abusive relationships.
Joanne Barnes
CEO
Peter Wilson
Head of Professional Services
Susan Ellison
Head of Therapeutic Services
Joanne Barnes
CEO
Joanne is an experienced leader with over 20 years professional experience co-producing, governing, and delivering innovative clinical and non-clinical services in the community and voluntary and higher education sectors. She is a passionate advocate of community development and engagement approaches to address societal needs and inequalities.
In addition, she is a skilled strategic planner with extensive experience developing organisational plans, achieving strategic aims, and exceeding target outcomes. As CEO Joanne holds overall responsibility for the strategic and operational delivery of Nexus with the support of the organisation’s Board.
Peter Wilson
Head of Professional Services
Peter is a proven operations lead with over 20 years running, managing and commissioning funded programmes in the employability and disability sectors. He is solutions focused and strives to ensure services are delivered with a person-centred approach with quality and innovation key to delivering excellence.
As Head of Professional Services, Peter leads the Early Intervention, Counselling and Helpline services, overseeing operational activities and providing strategic direction.
Peter also supports the Scouts, delivering outdoor educational programmes to 14-18 year olds, providing governance and chairing committees for Scouts NI and supporting and delivering international events.
Susan Ellison
Head of Therapeutic Services
Susan is a BACP-accredited counsellor with over a decade of experience in counselling and trauma. She has worked extensively with anxiety, depression, and psychological trauma stemming from abuse, and has developed specialisms in addiction and complex mental health. In addition, Susan is a qualified clinical supervisor, providing supervision to both qualified counsellors and students.
As Head of Therapeutic Services, Susan provides strategic leadership to Nexus counselling teams, ensuring high-quality, compliant services. She oversees service development, collaborates with funders and partners, and advocates for victims and survivors, making a meaningful impact on those impacted by abuse and trauma.
