Our Interim CEO Talks About Her First 100 Days at SIG

As Social Interest Group (SIG) continues to advance its mission of empowering communities through social investment, strong leadership plays a vital role in shaping our path. This month, we’re spotlighting our Interim CEO, Cathy Kane, as she reflects on her first 100 days in the role. From early insights to unexpected moments and her vision for the future, Cathy candidly examines what it means to step into leadership during a pivotal time.

Looking back on your first 100 days as Interim CEO, what have been the most significant positive or challenging surprises about leading an organisation like SIG?

“The breadth of our services and impact is far beyond what I had envisaged. SIG is not necessarily a very big organisation, but what it brings to marginalised people is huge.”

What have you learned from engaging with SIG’s team, partners, and the communities we serve, and how has that shaped your leadership so far?

“The passion and commitment of those who work for SIG, whether staff, volunteers, or partners, make me want to use those strengths to build for the future while protecting what’s special and unique. We have to be ambitious in this challenging world, and I want to safeguard that ambition and look to strengthen SIG for the future so that when I hand over to a substantive CEO, SIG is true to its core but ready to embrace its next chapter.”

Can you share a moment or project from your first few months that felt especially meaningful or affirmed your decision to step into this role?

“Visiting so many services and talking to individuals brought home the fact we could all be that vulnerable person who needs SIG’s help; it’s impossible to pick one experience. SIG is delivered with passion across all our services.

I aim to work with the organisation to build on its strengths and enable SIG to continue supporting marginalised people to give them better life chances.””

As Interim CEO, how are you balancing the need to maintain stability with the opportunity to introduce fresh perspectives or ideas?

“It’s vital to identify and protect SIG’s strengths. I value working with and supporting staff and trustees to use those strengths to drive the organisation to continue meeting the needs of our beneficiaries and reviewing how we do this effectively and still make a difference.

However, I recognise it’s crucial to do this without losing any of the value of the past 10 years and protect the critical elements of the organisation to ensure we can meet the challenges ahead while building on what makes SIG special.”

You were appointed as a trustee before taking on the Interim CEO role. How did that initial experience on the board influence your perspective or approach once you stepped into executive leadership?

“Having worked in the Charity sector and Health and Social Care for many years, seeking to deliver change in an unequal world, I could recognise that SIG has the power to fulfil that goal.

The trustees are essential to that journey, challenging and championing SIG to meet upcoming challenges while remaining true to its core values. When asked to step into the interim role, I was confident that, with their help, I could continue supporting and developing SIG’s mission and vision.”

What’s your vision for SIG’s next chapter, and how can supporters and partners best contribute to that journey?

“SIG is in a different world than when it first set out to support marginalised people. Part of my objective is to help the organisation face those changed environments and prepare to meet the demands of the modern world with the same passion and values it’s always used to bring about change.

I’m working with staff and the Board to define our ongoing strategic goals and drive the business so that everyone feels part of this journey and is a vital, supported part of SIG’s future. My next steps are to reach out to partners to continue that journey and utilise their strengths to have an impact.”

We’re grateful to Cathy for taking the time to share her journey so far. Her reflections remind us that leadership is about direction and connection with people, purpose, and possibility. As we look ahead, we’re excited for what’s to come under her guidance. Stay tuned and connected -SIG’s next chapter is just beginning, and we’re glad you are part of it.