21 January 2008
Stephen Howard, Managing Director of Business in the Community has been appointed Chief Executive of Business in the Community from 1 March 2008 succeeding Julia Cleverdon CVO CBE who has been Chief Executive for sixteen years.
Sir Stuart Rose, Chief Executive, Marks & Spencer and Chairman of Business in the Community said:
“I am delighted with Stephen’s appointment and am looking forward to working with him at such a pivotal time. BITC has an important role to play in encouraging companies to do their bit to tackle challenges as diverse as climate change and skills shortages.”
Stephen brings a wealth of senior management expertise to Business in the Community acquired through the corporate sector. He was previously Group Chief Executive of Cookson Group plc from 1997 until 2004. Between 2004 and 2005, Stephen was appointed Group Chief Executive of Novar plc. His appointment follows two and a half years as Managing Director of Business in the Community and eight years as a supporter and national partner of BITC’s Business Action on Homelessness initiative.
Sir Michael Rake, Chairman, BT and former Chairman of Business in the Community said:
“I have had the pleasure of working closely with Stephen at both BITC and as a FTSE Chief Executive. I know that he will be a dynamic leader for the organisation and will build on the legacy that has been established by Julia Cleverdon.”