The Ramblers, Britain’s Walking charity has appointed Benedict Southworth as the new Ramblers chief executive, set to take the helm of Britain’s Walking Charity on the 1st February 2012.
For the past two years Benedict has worked as a consultant to a long list of high profile charities, providing top level support on strategy development, mentoring and campaign planning processes. Among others his clients have included ActionAid UK, ActionAid International, Christian Aid, European Climate Foundation, Friends of the Earth, and UNICEF UK.
With more than 20 years experience in the charity sector, Benedict has also successfully held senior positions in environment charities Greenpeace International and Friends of the Earth as well as for The World Development Movement Trust, Amnesty International and pro bono work for campaigning force, 38 Degrees.
Rodney Whittaker, Chair of the Ramblers Board of Trustees, said “The Ramblers are entering a new and exciting era in our fight for access but it won’t be without its challenges. Benedict’s long history of visionary work in the charity sector, both in the UK and abroad, his environmental work, proven leadership skills and passion for walking, set him in good stead to confidently lead the Ramblers, our volunteers and members, as we embark on this new journey.
“We extend a warm welcome to Benedict as the new Chief Executive and eagerly await the New Year as he takes the helm in our continued fight to safeguard the footpaths, the countryside and places we go walking, and encourage more people to take up walking.”
Benedict Southworth said: “ I’m delighted to be joining the Ramblers, whose campaigns have done so much to protect our right to access Britain’s countryside and footpaths. This is a critical time for the organisation when the successes Ramblers have achieved are threatened by changes to the way we see and use the countryside. As a keen walker myself I hope to introduce the joys and benefits of walking to the many people who are not aware of the opportunities on their doorstep. I’m looking forward to working with the staff, members and volunteers who make the Ramblers what it is today.”
Benedict Southworth will replace Tom Franklin, who after four years as CEO will be leaving the Ramblers at Christmas to become chief executive of Think Global, a charity that aims to help people in the UK learn about such issues as poverty and climate change and find out how they can play a part in creating a more just and sustainable world.
