Brunelcare appoints new Interim Chief Executive Officer

Bristol-based charity Brunelcare is delighted to announce that Sonia Furzland has been appointed as its new Interim Chief Executive Officer. Sonia was chosen by the charity’s Board of Trustees and will take on the role from early May 2026.  

Sonia will succeed Oona Goldsworthy, who is stepping down as Brunelcare’s CEO at the end of April 2026, after six and a half years leading the charity.  

First founded in 1941, Brunelcare is celebrating its 85th anniversary later this year. The organisation provides high quality, person-centred care, support and housing to more than 2,000 older people across Bristol, Somerset and South Gloucestershire, and employs 1,100 staff. 

Graham Russell, Brunelcare's Chair of Trustees, said:

"We are thrilled to welcome Sonia to Brunelcare and the Board of Trustees felt she was an outstanding candidate. Sonia brings with her considerable experience of working at a senior level in housing and providing community-based services. She has a clear track record of ensuring the voice and priorities of customers are heard, something which is vital to our mission. 

"I would also like to acknowledge the huge contribution made by our outgoing CEO, Oona Goldsworthy, over the last six years. Oona has steered the charity through the Covid-19 pandemic, the energy bills crisis and the continued pressures faced by all care and housing providers with energy, resilience, and good humour. She has also been a fierce advocate for the housing and social care sectors, and all those working within them, across our region and at a national level. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Oona for all that she has done for Brunelcare." 

Sonia has more than three decades of experience working across the housing sector. Her most recent role was as the Interim Executive Director of Housing at Bristol City Council, and prior to that she was Executive Director of Operations at Newport City Homes.  

Sonia said:

“I am delighted to take up the role of Interim Chief Executive for Brunelcare. The work that the organisation does really matters and it has earned Brunelcare a reputation for delivering great services, with integrity and compassion. With Oona’s departure I know I have big shoes to fill, and I am very much looking forward to getting started.” 

Sonia will officially join Brunelcare in May 2026 and will continue in the role until a new permanent Chief Executive Officer is appointed.