Mission Community Services Society new executive director shed his corporate colours more than 12 years ago to work with non-profit organizations.
Sanjay Gulati studied in India and worked in the information technology industry for close to 15 years before his thoughts turned towards community.
He wanted to help build a community and connect people with services.
He moved to England with his family and lived there for 16 years while working in community services. He managed programs for children, seniors and families and also helped with fundraising efforts.
England is an older country that has been through many programs and challenges, said Gulati who plans to draw on experiences and lessons he has learned in the UK to improve services in Mission.
MCSS has a solid history in the community, observed the new ED, who feels the organization's presence is waning and would like to make it a visible part of Mission again.
"I want people to trust us and for our clients to receive good service," said Gulati. "I want to listen and engage them. We need to evolve to the community's needs."
Since beginning his new post in September, Gulati is reviewing all programs and trying to find efficiencies and savings. But it's too early to say what changes, if any, will be made, he noted.
"I'm also in the process of revisiting our strategic plan which will give us our direction for the next three to five years."
Gulati, his wife, and his youngest child moved to Canada 18 months ago to work with with the Seniors Services Society in New Westminster. His oldest son is attending university in England.
Gulati and his family have visited the Fraser Valley numerous times before deciding to move here to be closer to relatives.