We are delighted to announce the appointment of three outstanding leaders who are joining us to guide our work as we prepare to launch our new strategy at the end of June.
These appointments represent a significant step forward for the Henry Smith Charity as we look to elevate the impact of organisations who are helping tackle social and economic exclusion and supporting those in adversity to thrive.
The three directors will cover the charity’s key focus areas.
“We are delighted to welcome Rob, Clare and Ghino to our leadership team…they bring expertise, strategic insight and a deep commitment to social justice and they will play a vital role in shaping our new direction”
Anand Shukla, Chief Executive
Ghino Parker – Director, Building Independence
Ghino brings a wealth of expertise in systems change, programme design, research, and impact evaluation. She was previously Director at Barnardo’s SEEN and National FGM Centre and has worked extensively across youth services. As a trustee at the Refugee Council and former National Programme Manager at the Children’s Society, Ghino has dedicated her career to supporting young people facing challenges.
Clare McGread – Director, Getting Started
Clare joins us from Buttle UK, where she has been Director of Grants Development. She has extensive experience in strategy, policy, and grant-making, with a strong track record in early years and social justice. Previously, Clare held senior roles at the National Literacy Trust and Save the Children.
Rob Bell – Director, Safer Futures
Rob brings over two decades of leadership experience across public, voluntary, and commercial sectors. Previously interim CEO at London Plus, Rob has also held leadership roles at Sainsbury Family Charitable Trust and London Emergencies Trust. He worked at Paul Hamlyn Foundation, where he helped establish Migration Exchange. Rob has also worked in the commercial sector, including as Joint CEO at Bettys & Taylors Group in Harrogate and CEO at SFCT and LET.
These appointments come at a pivotal time as we prepare to launch our new strategy at the end of June, when full information about our funding priorities will be available, alongside our plans for future programmes
Commenting on the appointments, Anand Shukla, Chief Executive of The Henry Smith Charity said: “We are delighted to welcome Rob, Clare and Ghino to our leadership team at this important time in the charity’s history. They bring expertise, strategic insight and a deep commitment to social justice and they will play a vital role in shaping our new direction. As we prepare to launch our new strategy, their leadership will help us refine our focus, deepen our impact and build strong partnerships to ensure our work reaches those who need it most. I look forward to sharing more details about our ambitious new strategy at the end of June.”
Author
Victoria Flint, Communications Consultant