'It is a privilege and a challenge': Belfast man appointed new chair of third sector body CO3

CO3, the representative body for third sector leaders in Northern Ireland, has announced the appointment of Belfast man Jonathan McAlpin as its new chair.

Jonathan succeeds Jacinta Linden, who steps down after 10 years of dedicated service to the organisation.

Jonathan has served on the CO3 Board for nine years and brings considerable experience and a strong understanding of both the organisation and the wider voluntary, community and social enterprise sector to the role. His appointment comes at a key juncture for the voluntary and community sector as CO3 continues to grow its membership, political engagement and influence at a time when organisations across Northern Ireland are facing significant financial and operational pressures.

Jonathan paid tribute to Jacinta's contribution to the sector during her tenure: “It is a privilege and a challenge to take on the role of chair of CO3 and I pay tribute to Jacinta for the enormous contribution she has made over the past decade during which her commitment to CO3 has been exceptional. Jacinta helped guide the organisation through some extraordinary challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, while also overseeing a period of considerable growth and development.

“Having served on the Board for a number of years, I know the vital role CO3 plays in supporting and representing third sector leaders. I look forward to working with Valerie, the Board, staff team and our members to build on that strong foundation.”

Jacinta Linden joined the CO3 Board 10 years ago, serving for three years as vice chair before becoming chair for the past three years.

CO3 chief executive Valerie McConville, continued: “Jacinta has given 10 years of tremendous service to CO3 and we are enormously grateful for her leadership, commitment and support. She leaves the organisation in a stronger position and has our very best wishes for the future.

“We are delighted to welcome Jonathan as our new chair. He knows CO3, the sector and our members extremely well, and I look forward to working with him as we continue to strengthen the voice and influence of third sector leaders across Northern Ireland.”

Reflecting on her time with CO3, Jacinta, added: “It has been a genuine privilege to serve on the CO3 Board for the past 10 years and as chair for the last three.

“The strength of CO3 lies in its members and in the extraordinary leadership they demonstrate every day across Northern Ireland. I am proud of how the organisation has developed and grown, particularly during what has often been a very challenging period for our sector. I wish Jonathan and everyone associated with the organisation every success for the future.”