Ben launches search for new chair and trustees

Automotive industry charity Ben has launched a search for a new Chair and several trustees as it enters the next phase of its 120-year history.

The organisation is inviting applications and expressions of interest from leaders who can help guide the charity’s future direction and support its ambition to expand health and wellbeing support across the automotive industry.

The recruitment process follows the completion of a two-year transformation and divestment programme, which has repositioned Ben as a focused health and wellbeing charity supporting people who work, or have worked, in the automotive sector and their families.

With strong foundations now in place, the charity has outlined plans to significantly increase the reach of its services. Ben aims to treble its impact and provide health and wellbeing support to more than 10,000 individuals by 2030.

The recruitment follows the retirement of four long-serving trustees: Steve Nash, Graeme Potts, Robin Woolcock and Jeremy Hicks. Together with the wider Board, they helped guide the charity through a significant period of organisational change and transformation.

Will Dalton, a Ben trustee since February 2020, has been appointed interim chair to provide continuity while the search for new board members takes place. Steve Nash and Graeme Potts will continue to support the charity in advisory capacities during the transition.

Executive search firm Warren Partners has been appointed to lead the recruitment process for the new chair and trustee roles. Ben is particularly keen to hear from individuals working across different areas of the automotive sector, alongside those with health and wellbeing leadership or charity experience.

Rachel Clift, CEO of Ben, said: “Ben simply wouldn’t be the charity it is today without the commitment, wisdom and leadership of our retiring Trustees. Their contribution has been immense, and we are incredibly grateful for the role they have played.

“We now look forward with strong foundations in place. We’re seeking passionate leaders who want to help us accelerate our ambition, develop our vision for the future and expand the support we provide to our automotive family. This is an exciting moment for Ben and a unique opportunity to make a lasting difference.”

Ben is encouraging expressions of interest from across the automotive industry and beyond, highlighting that diversity of experience, thought and background will be central to the charity’s future success.

Individuals interested in the Chair or trustee roles are invited to contact Warren Partners by emailing jf@warrenpartners.co.uk with your CV and expression of interest.