We Care Group (WCG) and the Summit Care Group (SCG) have appointed a new CEO, as founder Bernie Suresparan moves to a new role after 18 years, welcoming Paul Newman, former Greensleeves Care CEO, to the helm.
After almost two decades running WCG, a community of 35 care homes across the north of England, Bernie is moving into the role of executive chairman in preparation for the next stage of business development.
Plans for growth and innovation in line with the business values of ‘family, honesty and respect’ led to the new appointment at WCG and SCG, Bernie said: “Paul has proven an incredible talent in leading a care business, I firmly believe he is the right person to take We Care Group forward.
“Through his leadership, Paul will make sure we continue to work to our values, moving forward with our ambition to be the greatest company to work for in the care sector.”
For almost 12 years Paul led Greensleeves Care, during which time the organisation was recognised as one of the UK’s Top 20 Large Care Providers and Paul was voted ‘care executive of the year’ at the inaugural Leaders in Care Awards.
Paul is committed to people development, innovation and high-quality care and looks forward to applying his skillset to a fast-growing care business, he said: “I bring extensive experience in transforming businesses and sustainable expansion. I’m particularly focused on workforce engagement, digital transformation, and enhancing resident experience – all of which will be key to taking both groups forward.”
Upon starting, Paul’s immediate priorities will be meeting colleagues for feedback and insights and ensuring all homes are fully staffed with ‘engaged, well-supported teams’ and ‘enhancing quality and strengthening financial sustainability to support long-term growth.’
While Paul’s leadership has been utilised in a not-for-profit environment, he is ready for new challenges in a private organisation, he said: “While the legal structures differ, the core mission remains the same: delivering outstanding care for residents.
“In both nonprofit and for-profit settings, success is built on strong leadership, engaged colleagues and a commitment to quality. The key difference will be balancing commercial agility with long-term investment in our care services, but I’m confident that groups’ values align closely with my own approach to leadership and care excellence.”
Launched in 2007, WCG and SCG provide a variety of care settings, including dementia, nursing, and multi-sites, and has continually grown since its inception. In the last five years the group has grown from 14 to 35 homes significantly increasing revenue in this time.
Bernie said: “We’ve got exciting plans for the continued growth and I’m delighted to be handing over the reins to Paul and look forward to many new challenges.”
Paul begins his new role in March 2025.
Image depicts Paul Newman