As Executive Search Consultants, we have the privilege of working alongside exceptional leaders across the sector whose ideas, resilience, and ambition inspire us every day. In this leadership series, we shine a light on these individuals-our clients and placements-exploring what drives them, the challenges they are navigating, their hopes and ambitions for the future, and even their ultimate dinner party guest.
Principal Consultant
Phil is a valued client of Prospectus, and most recently we worked closely with him and the Board to recruit new trustees for the brilliant charity, New Horizon Youth Centre. A vital London organisation, New Horizon supports young people facing homelessness, helping around 1,500 each year to find safety, stability and opportunity. Since becoming Chief Executive in 2018, Phil has led the charity through significant challenges, including the pandemic and cost of living crisis, while strengthening its impact and voice.
CEO, New Horizon Youth Centre
A self-described “proud generalist,” Phil began his career in finance before moving into operations and external affairs. He is now recognised as a fundraising-focused CEO with a strong instinct for campaigning and media. Under his leadership, New Horizon has become an increasingly confident and influential voice in shaping policy on youth homelessness, both in London and nationally.
Alongside his role, Phil mentors emerging talent across the sector and serves on the board of the OVO Foundation, as well as being a proud Dad to two wonderful girls.
What inspired you to enter this sector and pursue a CEO role?
I started my career as a maths teacher but having met a VSO Nurse on my travels, applied to do the same and found myself as a 25 year old teaching in Eritrea and beginning a life of service in the charitable sector.
What is the greatest challenge you face in your role today?
Holding on to hope in the face of adversity and reminding yourself it can be done, even when the evidence might suggest otherwise.
Who has been your greatest inspiration within the sector?
New colleagues starting out in the sector, full of optimism and with fire in belly.
If you could give a ‘rising star’ award, who would you choose – who’s the one to watch?
The world of work is full of two types of people; those who tell you what the problem is and those that do something about it. If you work with people who fulfil the latter, they are the ones to watch.
If you could give a ‘rising star’ award, who would you choose – who’s the one to watch?
The world of work is full of two types of people; those who tell you what the problem is and those that do something about it. If you work with people who fulfil the latter, they are the ones to watch.
If you could invite anyone to a dinner party, who would be your number one guest?
For so many reasons, Demis Hassabis
What one lesson would you share with aspiring leaders?
And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.
What are your hopes and dreams for the future of your organisation or the sector as a whole?
Together we build a world where everyone can fulfil their potential in work and in life.
