The Alcohol and Drug Service (ADS) is delighted to announce the appointment of Laura Jarvis as its new Director of Operations and Business. With 17 years of dedicated service within ADS, Laura brings extensive experience and a deep commitment to advancing support and recovery for those affected by substance misuse.

From Graduate to Leader
Laura’s career has been a journey of professional growth and passion. While studying Psychology at university, Laura wasn’t certain about her future path. However, a final placement in drugs and alcohol recovery during a graduate training scheme opened her eyes to the sector she would come to dedicate her career to. Early on, she worked hands-on in needle exchanges and outreach services in Sheffield, which fuelled her commitment to making a difference.

In 2008, Laura began her journey with ADS as a Practitioner in Goole, quickly embracing opportunities to develop her knowledge and skills through the diverse training programmes available..

Her ambition and leadership qualities were recognised with a promotion in 2012 to Practice Lead in Scunthorpe, where she focused on enhancing the quality of psychosocial interventions. Through the years, Laura has continued to climb the career ladder, notably managing a critical multidisciplinary team in Doncaster.

Leading Innovation
In 2017, Laura took on the key role of developing Generis, ADS’s innovative training arm designed to extend substance misuse knowledge beyond traditional settings. Applying strategic thinking and leadership skills she established Generis as a trusted training provider supporting local authorities, NHS trusts, and commercial companies. To date, over 3,100 people have been trained, to better equip them to assist individuals facing substance misuse challenges.

Professional Development and a Flourishing Future
Laura’s development has been supported by continuous development, achieving Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) qualifications up to Level 7, the equivalent of a master’s degree in management, alongside teaching and internal quality assurance credentials. Her vision for the future includes broadening her strategic management capabilities and contributing to ADS’s long-term planning and impact.

Reflecting on her journey, Laura says, “ADS is not just my workplace; it has been my career home where I have always been supported and treated as an individual. I am proud of how far I have come, and I’m excited about what the future holds.”

Tim Young, CEO of The Alcohol and Drug Service, comments on Laura’s appointment:
“We are excited to welcome Laura to the ADS Executive Team. Her passion, dedication and hands-on experience across all areas of our service make her the perfect fit for the role of Director of Operations and Business. Over the years, she has shown exceptional leadership, driving innovation and championing professional development not only for herself but for others. We look forward to Laura’s contribution to enabling ADS to continue to strengthen its support for communities affected by substance misuse and expand its vital services with passion and integrity.”

This change to the Executive Team also saw Kirsty Young promoted to Director of Quality and Performance in May this year.