Swindon & Wiltshire News
Wiltshire & Swindon Community Foundation announces new chair of trustees
Wiltshire & Swindon Community Foundation has appointed Mark Barnett as its new chair of trustees, along with two vice chairs and four new board members.
Since joining the Board in 2021, Mark has played an integral role in guiding the organisation’s work, and steps up to the role of Chair after serving as vice chair.
He has also contributed his time and expertise as a panel member across several of the Foundation’s grants programmes.
Mark brings extensive leadership experience to the role, after spending 12 years as CEO at The Consortium in Trowbridge before co-founding Responsible Homes in 2018.
Alongside his involvement with the Foundation, Mark also serves as a trustee of Doorway in Chippenham.
Mark will be supported in his new role by Damian Haasjes and Lisa Lewis, who have been appointed to the roles of joint vice chair.
Damian, who currently works at Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, has been on the Board at the Foundation since 2023. Lisa has extensive knowledge of running a charity, following 13 years at Doorway, including nine as CEO. She has been a trustee at the Foundation since 2019.
Wiltshire & Swindon Community Foundation is the largest grant-giving organisation in Wiltshire and Swindon, dedicated to inspiring philanthropy to supporting the voluntary sector.
The Foundation’s aim is to connect people who care with causes that matter, to tackle disadvantage within the county. This year, the organisation is proudly celebrating its 50th anniversary, and has to date awarded over £26.8m in grants across Wiltshire and Swindon.
“I’m honoured to take on the role of Chair after three years as a Trustee and Vice Chair of Wiltshire & Swindon Community Foundation. It’s a wonderful organisation that makes a lasting difference to people’s lives across our communities,” said Mark. “I’m passionate about using my experience to help raise funds, support local charities, and ensure those most in need receive the help they deserve.”
Pictured: Wiltshire & Swindon Community Foundation’s new chair Mark Barnett (centre), with joint chief executives Vicky Hickey (left) and Fiona Oliver (right)
