Mike Simpson, Chief Executive

Telephone: 01962 864234

I love working for the YMCA! It’s a fantastic worldwide organisation, without a fixed model imposed from above. You’d be surprised by the variety of work; supporting refugees in Palestine; running one of the best hotels in Hong Kong; providing quality youth work all over the UK and sports centres across the United States. That’s just a sample! If I ever retire I’d live near a beach in Devon and write a novel.

Simon Dodd, Youth Programme Manager

Telephone: 01962 864234

Mobile:07854 726873

I started work with Winchester YMCA in February 2009. My role involves overseeing the consultation process and the development of the programmes related to our new Youth Café. I am married to Sarah and we attend one of the local Churches. My main interests are football, current affairs and my unhealthy obsession with Sky News.

Esther Grabham, Youth Worker

Telephone: 07854 459696

I’ve been working for the YMCA since 2004 as a Youth and Children’s worker. I love the challenge and fun that my job brings working with 5 – 18 year olds in a variety of settings. I am proud to be the undefeated crazy golf champion amongst the Winchester YMCA staff!

I’ve been married to Tim for 3 years, where our love for pick n mix sweets was evident at our ”sweetie” themed wedding! Tim and I are members of St. Mary’s Church, Kings Worthy.

Sam Barnes, Youth Worker

Telephone: 01962 864234

I have been told that the reason I do youth work is because I have not grown up yet, but the real reason is because working with young people is an amazing job, especially when you see how a person can grow and develop. Knowing that you have walked that journey with them is a privilege and honour.

One of my talents is mixing the music up behind the decks. Known as ”Mad Sam” for many years I still DJ for many events including YMCA Disco’s.

Isobel Tutt-Leppard, Administrator

Extended Schools Telephone: 01962 866944

I have worked for the Winchester YMCA for two years, largely coordinating ”extended schools” , but also covering YMCA administration. I love chocolate and mushrooms (’though not together) and the buzz of working somewhere where no two days are ever quite the same. Oh...and my colleagues are highly entertaining to be with as well.

Jonathan Walker, Facilities Manager

Bookings Telephone: 01962 892541

Mobile: 07854 726929

I have always worked and lived in the Winchester area so can identify with John Keats when he said ’Winchester is the pleasantest place I have ever been’. Even as Project Manager of the Winchester Churches Nightshelter, seeing something of the underbelly of Winchester’s homelessness issues, I cannot help but think that this is a wonderful place to live and work. As a result of my previous work as Church Administrator for Immanuel Church in St. John’s House, I am well placed in my current job as Facilities Manager to help enable St. John’s House to operate as YMCA offices, a youth venue and function rooms for hire.