Welcome to new Chief Executive, Matthew Thomson

We would like to extend a huge welcome to Matthew Thomson, our new Chief Executive of Fifteen Cornwall and The Cornwall Foundation of Promise.

Joining Fifteen Cornwall on Monday 16th April 2012, Matthew was previously Chief Executive of the London Community Resource Network. A Cornishman returning to his roots after 26 years away, Matthew brings a wealth of experience from the social enterprise, community, environmental, charity sectors as well as the hospitality industry.

Before running the London Community Resource Network he was Learning Director at the School for Social Entrepreneurs and previously held senior roles at Time Bank and the National Lottery Charities Board (now BIG Lottery Fund).

Starting his catering career at the Cornwall Coliseum, Matthew’s subsequent experience in the restaurant and hospitality sector included front-of-house, kitchen and manager roles in four London restaurants and a Mayfair pub.  Matthew has also held a range of non-executive directorships and advisory positions with several third sector private and public organisations and sits on the Civil Society Advisory Board in the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

“I am delighted to join Fifteen Cornwall’s exciting team and to have the chance to take the Cornwall Foundation of Promise forward as one of the county’s leading charities,” comments Matthew Thomson.  “Together they form what has become a tremendously successful social enterprise focused on developing talent and opportunity within Cornwall.  Speaking as a local returning to Cornwall after too long away, I couldn’t have found a better way home!”

“I am really impressed by the skills I’ve seen from this year’s apprentices, and am humbled by the commitment and craft of the staff and trustees that have helped them learn such skills. It is truly an honour to take up the Chief Executive role and I look forward to working with Fifteen Cornwall’s supporters who have contributed so much to our success, and to involving new partners in the months and years ahead.”

Roger Furniss, Chairman of Cornwall Foundation of Promise and Fifteen Cornwall adds:  “On behalf of my fellow board members I’m delighted to welcome Matthew to the team.  As a Cornishman who has gained great experience in charity and restaurant management in London and elsewhere, he will play a key part in building on the success of our first six years.”