Rachel, first joined the Foundation 18 years ago as Grants Director and is looking forward to the challenge, pledging a continued commitment to addressing financial hardship, poverty, and the cost-of-living crisis.

Rachel said: “I am absolutely delighted to take on this new role and, alongside our amazing team, I will continue to champion philanthropy and the incredible voluntary groups and charities in Northamptonshire. Community Foundations are utterly unique – connecting those who want to give with local communities and residents most in need. This means we can address community needs now whilst also preparing to support generations to come for community needs we cannot yet foresee with sustainable future funding.

“I have a real passion for harnessing the power of generosity which can and does build better places and lives. The Foundation will continue to provide a rewarding journey for our donors, by bringing them together with causes they deeply care about whilst also helping resource the Voluntary Sector to support urgent local community needs right here, right now.”

Rachel’s appointment follows the departure of former CEO Victoria Miles, who left the Foundation after 15 years in post to become the new Chief Executive of The Parks Trust in Milton Keynes.

On behalf of the Foundation's Trustees, Chair Rachel Mallows has welcomed the new appointment. She said:

“Quite rightly the recruitment process for this role has been a rigorous and competitive one with input from funders, community groups, staff and trustees.  I am confident that with Rachel at the helm, the Foundation is in exceptionally safe hands and we will continue to both raise money and award grants.  We are committed to meeting today’s needs as well as those of the future and with Rachel as our CEO, along with our incredible team of staff and trustees, we are dedicated to supporting communities in what is an incredibly tough time for so many. We are thrilled that Rachel has agreed to lead us through our next phase.”

Foundation trustee Liam Condron has also welcomed the new appointment.

“Rachel's knowledge of the county and of the Foundation are unique assets that made her a strong contender for this vital role,” said Liam, “but it is her passion, compassion and commitment that are the winning combination. Exciting times ahead for us all.”

Rachel has worked in a charitable sector setting for over 20 years including previously working for the University of Leicester teaching a Foundation Degree in Managing Voluntary and Community Organisations for charity professionals. Rachel is also a well-respected columnist for a local newspaper in Northamptonshire, writing about community and social issues and campaigns on local issues such as food poverty.

Rachel also has a personal commitment to raising funds for the Foundation in her spare time through running and trek challenges. She has raised funds over a number of years, most recently the Thames Path Trek 100k challenge for the foundation’s Winter Wellbeing Appeal.