Our Team

Dave Poulton
Chief Executive Officer
Dave joined YMCA Reading in April 2021, bringing with him a wealth of experience and knowledge in the Youth, Playwork and Community sectors.
Dave has a community focus and is particularly interested in the rights of children and young people, commenting “I am particularly motivated by striving to improve services, and to have a positive impact on the lives of children and young people”.
Looking forward, Dave is excited to work closely with the Board of Trustees and the YMCA family to successfully deliver YMCA Reading’s strategic plan.
Stephen Ritchie
General Manager
During Stephen’s 12-year career at YMCA Reading he has risen to the top in a number of roles. As our intrepid General Manager, Stephen manages all of the Housing and Support and Maintenance teams as well as our infrastructure.
Rachel James
HR and Training Manager, and Padworth Activity Centre Manager
Rachel has been with YMCA Reading for over a decade. She manages recruitment, training, payroll, and all other HR functions, as well as managing the operations and bookings of the Padworth Activity Centre. Rachel is the go to person if you are interested in any Volunteering, Trustee or Apprenticeship roles here at YMCA Reading.
Kirstie Brock
Support Team Leader
Kirstie supervises our Case Practitioner Team who provide key support to our residents. Kirstie has in-depth knowledge of housing and support services, having worked much of her career to date at Reading Borough Council.
Alison Bennett
Parkside Pre-School Manager
Under Alison’s watchful eye, the Parkside Pre-School grows from strength to strength. A great Team!
Alice Heidemann-Poynton
Parkside Café Manager
Alice recently joined as Cafe Manager after a short break elsewhere. Alice will be looking at how we can make the Cafe even better for the local community!

Steve Grimshawe
Maintenance and Workshop Supervisor
Our longest serving member of staff with over 25 years here at YMCA Reading. Steve runs the workshop and keeps all of our facilities in tip-top shape.
To contact any of our staff, call us on 0118 975746, or contact us via contact form by clicking below: