Friends of the Earth chief executive to take up new role

Craig Bennett was director of policy and campaigns at Friends of the Earth from September 2010, before taking up the role of chief executive in July 2015. During Craig’s tenure, he refocussed the organisation on its unique role of empowering communities to take action where they live to protect the planet and using that momentum to tackle the climate and ecological crisis. The impact has seen campaign successes to protect nature and the climate - with the banning of bee-harming pesticides and securing a moratorium on fracking in England - as well as growth in the movement; including over 100 new community groups set up to fight the climate crisis.

Friends of the Earth’s Board will start the process of recruiting Craig’s successor shortly. Craig will be taking up his new post at The Wildlife Trusts at the start of April.

Frances Butler, Chair of Friends of the Earth, said:

“Faced with a climate and ecological emergency, Friends of the Earth is as vital today, as it’s always been. Craig has led support for communities to achieve significant wins for their environment and transformed the organisation so that it is ready to meet these environmental challenges head-on.

“I want to thank Craig for his hard work and dedication to Friends of the Earth and wish him well in his next venture.”

Craig Bennett, Friends of the Earth outgoing chief executive said:

“I feel enormously proud of what we have achieved during my time as chief executive. From campaign wins that protect nature and the climate, to growing a movement passionate about creating a better environment for all. I feel privileged to have worked alongside so many inspiring local activists and campaigners.

“I am now looking forward to continuing this work to protect wildlife and nature as chief executive of The Wildlife Trusts.

“It has been a real honour to serve as chief executive of Friends of the Earth and I will always remain a passionate supporter and friend of this extraordinary organisation and movement.”

ENDS

For more information contact the Friends of the Earth press office on 020 7566 1649 / 07718 394786 (out of hours – please do not text this number) or by emailing [email protected].