FareShare, the UK’s largest food surplus redistribution charity, today announced that its CEO, George Wright, has decided to leave FareShare next year and will move into an advisory role, focusing on critical strategic initiatives and partnerships. George has overseen a period of growth and network expansion and has helped foster key government and industry partnerships.
In this planned move as part of FareShare’s succession plans, George will continue to play a vital role, particularly in supporting the organisation’s collaboration with the industry on food redistribution policies and initiatives as FareShare marks its 30th year of operation.
John Bason, Chair of FareShare since 2012 and formerly Finance Director of Associated British Foods, will be Executive Chair, supported by Dominic Blakemore – Group Chief Executive of Compass – as Deputy Chair.
Kris Gibbon-Walsh will take on the role of Interim CEO, responsible for the charity’s day-to-day operations and strategic direction. Polly Bianchi, Chief Income and Engagement Officer will lead funding partnership development, and Richard Nixon, Chief Finance Officer, will oversee financial planning and management. Together, they will form the Executive Leadership team with Kris and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience.
John Bason said: “I would like to thank George for his vision and leadership since he joined last year, and I am very pleased he will continue as part of the FareShare family. As we move into this new chapter, Kris, Polly, and Richard will guide FareShare into its fourth decade, ensuring we remain absolutely committed to our mission to fight hunger, reduce food waste, and strengthen communities. We look forward to the journey ahead.”
George Wright added: “It wasn’t an easy decision for me to take, but this is about succession and adaptation of the organisation to build on our momentum and set ourselves up for the next phase. I will remain with FareShare into next year and do everything I can to support everyone through the transition.
“I’ve been proud of the progress we’ve made since I joined in May 2023. We’ve improved our safety and operational standards, secured network investment, forged stronger partnerships across industry, government, and funders, been a proud partner in the Coronation Food Project and forged a new alliance with the IGD. We have invested in developing our teams, enhancing the organisation for the future, and setting up Advisory Groups to increase the expertise into the organisation.”
FareShare remains committed to turning surplus food into hope and sustenance for those who need it most. The new leadership team will continue to hone FareShare’s focus on building stronger, more resilient communities through surplus food redistribution. Notably, FareShare has seen a 15% increase in food volumes for the year to date, driven by robust engagement and closer collaboration with the produce industry. This growth reflects our ongoing commitment to expanding our impact and reaching more people in need.
FareShare is well-positioned to drive positive environmental and social impact in the years ahead with the ongoing support of over 8,000 charity partners, the food industry and its volunteers. By continuing to innovate and expand food redistribution efforts, FareShare is dedicated to ensuring that surplus food reaches those who need it most, creating a lasting legacy for communities across the UK.
