Michael Gidney has joined In Kind Direct this month after leading The Fairtrade Foundation for the last 12 years.

He replaces Rosanne Gray, who stepped down last October after five years in the role.

Gidney has been with the Fairtrade Foundation since 2009, working as its deputy executive director before being appointed its CEO in 2012.

He is also a board member of the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust and is a former director of policy at Traidcraft plc.

In Kind Direct redistribute consumer products from firms to its network of charities, community groups, food banks and schools.

"Nearly 10 million UK adults are currently living in hygiene poverty, which is one million more than last year,” said Gidney.

“This is a scandal that should not exist, and In Kind Direct is doing an amazing job of working with companies and community groups to challenge it. I am really looking forward to working with the team to deliver even more impact and lasting change."

In Kind Director chair Teresa Tideman added: “We are delighted to welcome Michael as our new CEO.

“With his experience and passion for fighting poverty and exclusion, we are excited for the future as we look to the next five years and even greater impact."

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