Norfolk and Waveney Mind Executive Leadership Team (ELT), led by CEO Sonja Chilvers, is central to Norfolk and Waveney Mind’s mission. Through strategic leadership, operational resilience, and board alignment, they ensure the charity effectively supports individuals across the region.
Meet the Team
Sonja Chilvers - Executive Chief Officer
Sonja brings 22 years of experience with Norfolk and Waveney Mind, having started her journey on the frontline and progressing to lead operational delivery across the region. Prior to the merger of three local Minds, she led operations for Norwich Mind and has since played a vital role in shaping services from design to execution.
Over the past 15 years, Sonja has headed up key service areas and, more recently, served as Chief Operating Officer. Her leadership has been defined by a deep commitment to people and a passion for innovation and inclusion in mental health support.
In April this year, Sonja was appointed CEO of Norfolk and Waveney Mind. She is excited to continue this journey deepening our impact, amplifying the voices of those we support, and leading the organisation into its next chapter with clarity, purpose, and heart.
“I will lead with integrity, stay true to our values, and work in close partnership with all of you to make Norfolk and Waveney Mind the strongest, most compassionate charity. Thank you for your continued belief in our mission and in me. Together, we will keep moving forward because mental health matters, and so does every person we support.”
Emma Robinson-Hodges - Director of Strategy and Charity Development
Emma is a passionate and results-driven leader with years of experience in building strong partnerships and driving meaningful change. She’s worked in a variety of roles across organisations like the National Housing Federation, Cancer Research UK and Breast Cancer Now, where she’s led successful projects, partnerships, and campaigns that have had a real impact.
In her current role at Norfolk and Waveney Mind, Emma is focused on diversifying the charity’s income streams and supporting the Charity Development team, to raise both funds and the profile of the charity’s work in the local community. With her own lived experience of mental health and wellbeing, Emma brings a deep personal understanding of the challenges many face, which fuels her passion for creating positive change. She’s dedicated to helping the charity grow, connect with new supporters, and have an even greater impact on mental health across Norfolk and Waveney.
Outside of work, Emma enjoys spending time with her young family and finds peace in the Norfolk countryside. When she gets the chance, she loves to unwind in her garden, enjoying the simple pleasures of nature.
John Ingham - Director of Finance & Corporate Resources
Most of John's working life has been within the NHS in Norfolk & Waveney. Having qualified as a chartered public finance accountant, he worked at the Norfolk & Norwich Hospital for 10 years before moving into commissioning finance, culminating in roles as Chief Finance Officer for West Norfolk CCG, then Norwich CCG, and then Norfolk & Waveney CCG.
On leaving the NHS in 2022, he joined Norfolk and Waveney Mind and has greatly enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect with service provision.
Outside of work, he is a long-serving member of Wymondham Symphony Orchestra where he plays the violin. He also enjoys following most sports, especially rugby where he is a life-long supporter of Bristol Bears.
Kim Gotts - Director of People & Culture
Kim has over 15 years’ experience in People, Culture and Organisational Development roles across purpose‑led organisations. Throughout her career, she has been passionate about creating inclusive workplaces where people feel supported to do their best work and be their whole selves. She brings a strong focus on wellbeing, leadership development and values‑led culture.
Kim describes her approach as both human and practical — building strong relationships, listening carefully, and making sure that people strategies genuinely work for the people they are designed to support.
She has lived in Norfolk all her life and is deeply connected to the local community, so the opportunity to contribute to mental health services in the area she calls home is something she is genuinely excited and proud to be part of.
Outside of work, Kim is rarely found without her dog Teddy and enjoys long dog walks, playing badminton, cycling, and spending time with family and friends.