News

Press Release - 14 March 2008

Gerard Barclay Steps Down

BEN, the Automotive Industry Charity, has announced that after almost 5 years’ service Gerard Barclay will be standing down as Chief Executive.
Barclay said,”We have established a management team at BEN who is more than able to progress the many exciting initiatives both in fundraising and service provision. The financial position has been stabilised and will show a significant improvement in the order of £1 million on last year.”
“Having just celebrated 30 years in the industry the time is now right for me to move on. My personal plans are to develop a small portfolio of advisory roles, the first of which is helping establish a start-up logistics operation.”
“I hope as many of you as possible will stay in touch and I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for all the support you have given me in recent years and encourage you to continue with this essential work.”

“Christopher Macgowan takes over as Chief Executive from April 1st and, together with the Board, is implementing a recruitment process for my successor. Christopher can be contacted on 01344 294702.”

Christopher Macgowan commented, “On behalf of the BEN Board I want to thank Gerard for his commitment over the last five years. All of us involved in BEN know that the work we do is of vital importance and Gerard is leaving BEN with our reputation rightly at a high level and our finances in good order.” 

Editors’ Notes
BEN is the Automotive Industry Charity, the only occupational charity for those who work or have worked in the automotive and related industries. Founded in 1905, the Charity provides practical help, support, advice and friendship to more than 15,000 men and women and their families every year. In addition BEN provides a home to over 350 individuals who reside in one of its four residential centres in the UK and offers day care facilities at its centre in Coventry.
Website: www.BEN.org.uk