The Fairtrade Foundation has announced the appointment of Eleanor Harrison OBE as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective March. Harrison brings two decades of experience in purpose-driven organizations and is known for her work in social impact and international development.
Previously, Harrison served as the CEO of Impetus, a nonprofit focused on improving social outcomes for disadvantaged young people. She has also held leadership roles in various international NGOs, including running a Kenyan NGO supporting children and their families. In 2016, she was recognized with the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her contributions to international development.
Throughout her career, Harrison has worked to empower communities, particularly in navigating complex systems and creating sustainable change. She has been involved with Fairtrade since the 1990s, including supporting Wrexham's designation as a Welsh Fairtrade town in 2003. She is also currently the Chair of the Asylum Reform Initiative and has been involved with BOND, the UK network for international development organizations.
In her new role, Harrison will focus on advancing Fairtrade's mission to improve trade conditions for producers and ensure that consumers have access to ethically sourced products. She stated that promoting fairer trading practices is crucial in today's politically and economically unstable climate. She aims to increase consumer demand for Fairtrade goods, support existing business partners, and expand the foundation's impact.
Nyagoy Nyong'o, Chair of the Fairtrade Foundation Board of Trustees, expressed confidence in Harrison's leadership abilities, noting her proven track record in driving change and growing organizations. Harrison will take over from Michael Gidney, who stepped down in December after 12 years as CEO. Fiona Kindness, the foundation's Chief Financial Officer, will serve as interim CEO until Harrison begins her role.
For more information:
Fairtrade Foundation
Tel: +44 020 7440 7692
Email: [email protected]
www.www.fairtrade.org.uk