Automotive industry charity Ben has announced the appointment of a new chair and four new trustees.
The new chair is Jonathan Hewett, while the new trustees are Darren Edwards, Georgina Hoare, Damian Oton and Pia Wilkes CBE.
Hewett – who takes over from Will Dalton, who had served as interim chair since March – is chief executive of motor industry research organisation Thatcham Research.
Of the new trustees, Edwards (pictured above) is the former CEO of number one ranked AM100 dealer group Sytner Group and brings more than 40 years of automotive leadership experience.
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Hoare is chief executive of the PDA Society, Oton is chief commercial officer at Motability Operations and Wilkes is chief executive officer of the Vehicle Certification Agency.
Ben said the appointments came as it worked towards delivering its ‘road to 2030’ plan, under which it plans to significantly increase its reach and support thousands more people. The charity plans to evolve its services, expand industry partnerships and develop new ways to improve wellbeing at every stage of people’s lives and careers.
It thanked former interim CEO Dalton for his contribution and said he would also continue to serve as a trustee.
Appointments ‘an exciting moment’ for Ben
Rachel Clift, CEO at Ben, said: “These appointments mark an exciting moment in Ben’s journey. We have bold ambitions, not only to reach thousands more people with life-changing and lifesaving support, but to help shape a future where health and wellbeing are embedded at the heart of the automotive industry.
“The challenges facing our industry continue to evolve and so must we. Together with our new chair and trustees, we have an incredible opportunity to reimagine how wellbeing is understood, delivered and championed across the automotive community.
“Their experience, insight and passion will help us inspire new thinking, build stronger partnerships and create lasting impact for generations to come.”
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Hewett (pictured below) said: “It is a privilege to join Ben at such a pivotal moment. The charity has an ambitious vision for the future and an increasingly important role to play in helping shape a healthier, more resilient automotive industry.
“I look forward to working with my fellow trustees, Rachel and the senior leadership team to help turn that vision into reality – growing Ben’s reach, driving innovation and ensuring even more people can access the support they need throughout their lives and careers.”