Anna Hemmings: Inspiring Leadership Journey from Health Services to Smart Works CEO
Anna Hemmings is a distinguished British leader and social innovator, widely recognised for her transformative leadership across major charities and public service organisations in the United Kingdom. Currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Smart Works Charity, she has demonstrated remarkable expertise in social policy, organisational transformation, and community impact. With a career spanning over two decades, Anna Hemmings has held key executive roles in some of the country’s most influential non-profit and public organisations, including ADASS and GamCare, shaping social care and welfare policies that affect millions of lives.
Anna Hemmings: From Early Education to Professional Excellence
Educational Foundation at the University of Brighton
Anna Hemmings began her academic journey at the University of Brighton, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Social Policy. Her early focus on social structures and welfare systems laid the foundation for her career in the health and social care sectors. She later pursued a Master of Science (MSc) in Addictive Behaviour from the University of London, deepening her understanding of human psychology, behavioural health, and public welfare. These academic achievements gave her a unique perspective on addressing complex social challenges and policy development.
Career Path of Anna Hemmings
CEO at Smart Works Charity (2025 – Present)
In January 2025, Anna Hemmings took on the role of Chief Executive Officer at Smart Works Charity, a UK-wide organisation that helps unemployed women gain confidence, skills, and professional attire to secure employment. Her appointment marks a significant step for Smart Works as it expands its reach and strengthens its empowerment programmes. Anna’s extensive background in social care and leadership ensures that she brings a strategic and empathetic vision to this new phase of the organisation.
Under her leadership, Smart Works aims to enhance collaboration with corporate partners, strengthen volunteer engagement, and amplify its nationwide impact on women’s employment and empowerment. Her leadership style combines strategic insight with compassion—qualities that define her as one of the most respected leaders in the non-profit sector today.
CEO at ADASS (2023 – 2025)
Before joining Smart Works, Anna Hemmings served as Chief Executive Officer at ADASS—the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services—from December 2023 to January 2025. Based in England, ADASS represents directors and professionals across local authorities involved in adult social care. As CEO, she influenced national policies and worked to ensure that people receiving care could live independent and fulfilling lives, regardless of age, disability, or background.
Her tenure at ADASS was marked by advocacy for equality, better funding for social services, and innovative approaches to adult care. She fostered collaboration between local authorities, policymakers, and health organisations, leaving behind a legacy of inclusive leadership and progressive social policy.
Leadership at GamCare (2018 – 2023)
One of Anna Hemmings’ most impactful roles was as Chief Executive Officer of GamCare, a national charity dedicated to reducing gambling-related harms. From January 2018 to June 2023, she led a period of significant growth, diversification, and transformation within the organisation. During her five-year leadership, GamCare expanded its support network, introduced new education programmes, and strengthened partnerships with public health institutions and regulatory bodies.
Her efforts ensured that more individuals and families affected by gambling received timely, confidential, and effective support. Anna Hemmings’ tenure at GamCare established her as a change-maker in mental health and addiction services, combining evidence-based interventions with compassionate leadership.
Earlier Career and Strategic Roles
Prior to her high-profile CEO roles, Anna Hemmings gained extensive leadership experience across multiple sectors:
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Managing Director, OAKBRIDGE Bespoke Homes Ltd (2017): She provided interim leadership during a business transition phase, showcasing her adaptability and strategic oversight.
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Head of Directorate: South, Lifeline Project Ltd (2012 – 2017): She directed major initiatives for this national substance misuse charity, delivering service growth, innovation, and community outreach.
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Managing Director, Landscape Consultancy (2004 – 2012): As the founder and managing director, she led a consultancy focused on health and social care integration, working with NHS trusts, charities, and private providers to implement national policy initiatives.
Her ability to lead diverse teams and execute strategic plans across health, housing, and community welfare sectors demonstrates the depth of her managerial expertise.
Volunteering and Public Service Contributions
Anna Hemmings’ dedication to public service extends beyond her professional roles. She has been actively involved in community development and governance:
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Chair of the Board, The Pioneer Club (2014 – 2019): She oversaw a local youth charity operating a skate park and music venue, fostering creativity and engagement among young people.
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Next Director Scheme (NHS), Bedford Hospital NHS Trust (2019 – 2020): Through this NHS England initiative, she gained board-level experience, promoting diversity and preparing for future non-executive director roles within the healthcare system.
These voluntary roles highlight her commitment to community empowerment, inclusivity, and the development of future leaders within the UK’s social care landscape.
Anna Hemmings’ Leadership Philosophy
Anna Hemmings is widely admired for her transformational leadership style, combining strategic thinking with empathy and vision. Her focus on collaboration, equality, and innovation has allowed her to make tangible impacts across every organisation she has led. Whether improving social care standards or empowering women through Smart Works, she consistently demonstrates a belief in human potential and community resilience.
Her leadership journey exemplifies the power of purpose-driven management, where compassion meets strategy, and societal change becomes achievable through effective governance.
Conclusion: Anna Hemmings’ Enduring Legacy
From her academic beginnings at the University of Brighton to her role as CEO of Smart Works Charity, Anna Hemmings represents a model of ethical and impactful leadership in the UK’s charity and social care sectors. Her dedication to empowerment, equality, and transformative service continues to inspire professionals across health, education, and welfare fields. As she leads Smart Works into a new era, Anna Hemmings stands as a beacon of modern leadership—proving that with vision, integrity, and compassion, one can truly make a difference.
