Eleanor Harrison, previously chief executive at Impetus, will take up the role in March
The Fairtrade Foundation has announced the appointment of Eleanor Harrison as its new chief executive officer.
In a statement, the Foundation described Harrison as ”a visionary changemaker and strategist who brings with her 20 years of experience leading purpose-driven organisations”.
Harrison, who will begin her new role in March, was previously CEO of Impetus, a venture philanthropy nonprofit improving social outcomes and scaling impact for young people facing disadvantage.
She has received widespread recognition for her achievements, and in 2016, received the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for Services to International Development.
“I’m thrilled to be joining The Fairtrade Foundation at such an exciting point in time,” said Harrison.
”Fairtrade’s mission speaks to my values. To connect producers and consumers and promote fairer trading conditions so producers can earn a fair income has never been more vital.
”Trade can and must work better for people and planet at this critical time of heightened political, economic and environmental volatility and fragility,” she continued.
“I’m looking forward to taking up the baton from Michael Gidney, increasing consumer demand for Fairtrade products, supporting our portfolio of committed and highly valued business partners and growing our impact for producers.
”I will lead the Fairtrade Foundation with empathy, ambition and warmth and look forward to working with our team, partners and network to take Fairtrade to the next level,” Harrison outlined.
Nyagoy Nyong’o, chair of the Fairtrade Foundation board of trustees, said she was delighted that Harrison had agreed to join the Fairtrade Foundation as CEO.
”She brings a wealth of experience in how to make lasting change happen and has a very strong track record in growing impact, influence and income through visionary, strategic leadership, well-honed change management skills and energy, compassion and optimism,” she said.
“The Foundation has made great strides in transforming the sustainability landscape over the past three decades, ensuring that everything we do is rooted in the reality of producers’ experience,” Nyong’o added. ”I am thrilled we have found the right person to lead us through the next stage of our journey.”
Fiona Kindness, chief financial officer will be interim CEO until Eleanor is in post, taking over from Michael Gidney who stepped down in December.
