Peter Richardson will relinquish his role at CatholicCare Sandhurst at the end of the month and will take on an executive director role at Bendigo Community Health Services.

Mr Richardson’s new portfolio at BCHS will include mental health, drug and alcohol services and some children’s services.

“I know that suite of services will certainly complement my professional career and matches a lot of the work I’ve been doing for many years in the sector,” he said.

“The specific portfolios are yet to be worked out with Bendigo Community Health’s other executive director and the CEO.”

BCHS CEO Kim Sykes said Mr Richardson’s knowledge of the Bendigo community and his work in helping the disadvantaged and vulnerable would be a valuable asset.

"Peter has a rich history of leadership and direct care roles across the community sector as well as experience in private practice,” she said.

“He will bring to us a deep understanding of the community sector and the environment in which it operates, successful leadership experience and a commitment to enabling others to make changes necessary for a better future.”

Mr Richardson said his time at CatholicCare had been fantastic.

He acknowledged staff, the service’s advisory board and Bishop of Sandhurst Leslie Tomlinson.

Mr Richardson’s five years came as the organisation streamlined its IT systems and restructure to put more resources into clients.

It also brought on a number of new Commonwealth funded programs to service people in the region.

Bishop Tomlinson congratulated Mr Richardson on his new role, saying he had brought a commitment to serving all people.

“I thank Peter for his commitment to empowering individuals, families and communities in becoming stronger and more resilient,” he said.

The role will begin on September 10, with Mr Richardson’s last day taking place on August 31.

A recruitment process for a new CatholicCare executive director will begin shorty.