Automotive charity Ben has appointed a new Chair and four new Trustees.
Jonathan Hewett (pictured) has been appointed as chair of Ben, alongside new trustees Darren Edwards, Georgina Hoare, Damian Oton and Pia Wilkes CBE.
Hewett 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.”
The new Board appointments will play a key role in helping shape this future, bringing fresh thinking, strategic insight and extensive leadership experience from across the automotive, charity, public and commercial sectors.
Will Dalton has served as Interim Chair since March, providing strong leadership and continuity throughout the recruitment process.
Hewett is Chief Executive of Thatcham Research, the UK’s only automotive risk intelligence organisation.
He brings extensive leadership experience across financial services, insurance, retail and technology, together with a strong track record in strategy, innovation and organisational development.
Edwards, former Chief Executive Officer of Sytner Group, brings more than 40 years of automotive leadership experience.
Hoare, Chief Executive of the PDA Society, joins with extensive experience across the charity, health and social care sectors at senior leadership and board level.
A qualified psychodynamic psychotherapist, organisational consultant and coach, she brings expertise in mental health, safeguarding, organisational development and charity governance, alongside a strong commitment to improving psychological health and wellbeing outcomes.
Oton, Chief Commercial Officer at Motability Operations, brings more than three decades of automotive experience and expertise in commercial strategy, operational leadership, governance, transformation and partnership development.
Wilkes CBE, Chief Executive Officer of the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA), is a qualified engineer with over 30 years’ experience across the automotive sector. She is a recognised advocate for diversity, inclusion and neurodiversity.
