Food distribution charity FareShare has named Kris Gibbon-Walsh as its permanent chief executive, after holding the role on an interim basis since October last year.

Prior to become interim chief executive he was the charity’s chief operating officer for almost two years. He has also spent almost three years as UK director of network, community and operations at the charity, which works with supermarkets and suppliers to help combat food poverty.

“It is an honour to take on the role of CEO at FareShare,” said Gibbon-Walsh, who first worked for FareShare more than a decade ago as a volunteer at one of its warehouses.

“The food and logistic sectors have been brilliant partners over the last 30 years and the 8,000 charities we distribute to are at the heart of our mission, using surplus food to bring people together and strengthen communities. I am excited and optimistic that we can do even more together.

In addition, Fareshare has announced that Dominic Blakemore, the chief executive of food service company Compass Group, has taken over as chair of the charity’s board. He replaces John Bason, who is stepping down after 13 years in the role.

“I would like to thank John on behalf of all of the trustees on the Board for his incredible service over the past 13 years,” said Blakemore.

“He has Chaired us with passion, commitment and integrity throughout this time and has been integral to all that has been achieved.

“I’m delighted to be working with Kris, whose deep-seated knowledge of FareShare and its partner network — and incredible personal commitment to the purpose of FareShare – is at the heart of all he does.”

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