The Fairtrade Foundation has appointed international development specialist Eleanor Harrison OBE as its new CEO.
Harrison, who will assume the role in March 2025, succeeds Michael Gidney who stepped down in December 2024 after 12 years as CEO. She brings 20 years of experience leading purpose-driven organisations and is currently Chair of Asylum Reform Initiative, United Kingdom, a collaboration between six national refugee and asylum charities.
Previously, she was CEO of venture philanthropy non-profit Impetus. She was also Chief Executive at GlobalGiving UK, Vice Chair and Board member of BOND, and held leadership positions at several international non-governmental organisations.
In 2016, Harrison received the Order of the British Empire for Services to International Development.
“I’m thrilled to be joining The Fairtrade Foundation at such an exciting point in time,” says 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.
“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.”
Fiona Kindness, Chief Financial Officer, will be interim CEO until Eleanor is in post.
