Rita Waters is currently the Chief Executive of NYAS (National Youth Advocacy Service).  NYAS is a national charity, supporting and protecting the rights of children in care, on the fringes of care or care leavers to have their voices heard when decisions are being made about their lives.  Under Rita’s direction are a team of over 800 people including staff, self-employed contractors and volunteers, all of whom make a difference to children’s lives on a daily basis. Rita is proud to be the Chief Exec, leading NYAS to deliver better outcomes and life chances for children in care and champions the rights of the child to have their voices heard when key decisions are being made about their future.

Rita has been a Chief Executive for over 15 years in both the private and third sector, as well as holding senior leadership roles in the public sector.  She is a highly skilled business regeneration expert with significant experience of working with the private sector, identifying and delivering major investment opportunities.  She is also highly experienced in developing business and strengthening the third sector.  Rita has extensive experience in public sector bid writing, fundraising and leading and contributing to multi-agency teams and projects. 

Prior to NYAS Rita has worked across the early years sector, youth and adult training providers and charities offering business, financial and marketing support in order to create and maintain sustainable businesses.  Rita is trained in accountancy and holds an honours degree in Business and a post-grad in Management and Leadership. 

Rita is an established Board member and contributor to many Boards and organisations as well as Company Secretary and advisor to Boards.  In 2019 Rita was awarded the Merseyside Business Leader of the Year at the Merseyside Woman of the Year awards.  This was awarded on behalf of the Chief Exec of the Institute of Directors. 

Rita lives on the Wirral and travels extensively throughout the UK, sitting on Boards and representing NYAS in Westminster and on various other platforms.