Avish Steps Into New Business Manager Role at Tell Us North CIC
Tell Us North CIC has appointed Avish Johnson as its new Business Manager, strengthening the leadership team of the Newcastle-based community interest company.
Operating across the North East, Tell Us North CIC works with local people and with voluntary, community and public sector organisations to help shape and enhance health, wellbeing and social care services. Its work includes community engagement, research, evaluation, training and information services, as well as supporting collaboration between organisations.
Avish takes on the Business Manager role following a successful six-year career with EY (Ernst & Young), where he specialised in Australian taxation. During his time there, he managed tax filings and financial matters for clients, building extensive expertise in finance, compliance and accountability. His move into the voluntary and community sector marks a significant and purposeful shift.
“This is completely different from my previous role,” Avish says. “In a charity and community-focused organisation, you’re giving something back to society. That makes a real difference.”
In his new position, Avish will lead on finance and business operations, helping to drive forward the organisation’s continued growth and long-term sustainability. Tell Us North CIC is recognised for delivering the Healthwatch Newcastle and Healthwatch Gateshead services, ensuring that local people’s experiences and views influence the development of health and care services.
For Avish, the most rewarding part of stepping into this new role is the opportunity to contribute directly to community impact.
“It’s about listening to people, understanding their concerns and helping find solutions. That’s far more fulfilling than simply working behind a computer screen.”
Outside of work, Avish prioritises his own wellbeing in a simple, mindful way. Rather than listening to music, he prefers natural sounds — wind, rain and birdsong — which he finds calming and grounding.
“I like to listen to my surroundings,” he explains. “Nature sounds are soothing. It helps clear your head.”
Photo: Avish (Steve Brock Photography)