After adult care provider Hesley Group was acquired by Blandford Capital, major senior management team changes are now taking place as a result.

Hesley Group boasts a team of approximately 1,200 staff, supporting over 150 adults with conditions like autism, learning disabilities and complex care needs.

In late 2023, it was acquired by Blandford Capital, a private investment office.

March 2024 saw the introduction of KP Doyle as the new chairman of Hesley Group.

Doyle’s career includes managing multi-site healthcare services, including dental practices, private hospitals, physiotherapy and rehab centres and gym chains.

Reflecting on his initial months with Hesley Group, Doyle stated: “I have been blown away by the quality of support and education on offer. The transitional services and Mercury College continue to go from strength to strength, achieving amazing outcomes every day.”

The arrival of Doyle means the departure of long-serving CEO Chris McSharry, who has led the organisation for 18 years.

Stepping into the role of CEO is Virginia Perkins, an executive with a background in social care and education supporting vulnerable adults, young people and children.

Perkins said: “I am really excited about my new role with Hesley Group. I cannot wait to get started and work with the team to continue the development of Mercury College and the transitional services, while ensuring we provide the best support and education for the individuals in our care.”

In addition to these leadership changes, Hesley Group has seen the departure of non-executive director Hannah Miller.

Claire Royston, an internationally recognised consultant psychiatrist, has taken on this role. She brings knowledge of health and social care, having worked in both the NHS and independent sectors across social care and hospital services.

Royston also has experience caring for older people and those with learning disabilities, and in providing specialist services. She remarked: “I am honoured to join Hesley Group and look forward to contributing to the exceptional work being done to support and empower individuals.”

Hesley’s sale came after a 2021 scandal that forced the company to close the portion of its business that dealt with children’s care.