Chris Porter to step down from Benevolent role

Chris Porter is to step down from his position as chief executive of drinks charity The Benevolent it has been announced.

Porter was named CEO of the charity, with which he had been closely involved for over 20 years, in January 2018; having been on its board of trustees since 2010 and acted as chairman in 2013 and 2014.

Among other things he was the charity’s first CEO from the logistics sector and also oversaw the launch of the mental health awareness campaign #NotAlone which won The Drinks Business award for Best Trade Campaign last May.

Under his leadership the charity has helped an increasing number of people and received even more support from the trade with events such as The Benevolent Ball at the Natural History museum better-attended than ever before.

Porter commented: “I am very proud and pleased of where the charity is currently with the increased awareness and I am truly heartened by the goodwill that exists for The Benevolent and our work.

“It is an organisation that is at the heart of an industry I love and an industry that has a heart to look after its own. It is one that I will continue to support for many years to come and I have been honoured and privileged to have been its CEO.”

Michael Saunders, Chairman of The Benevolent said: “We owe Chris a huge debt of thanks for his work for our trade Charity over the last 20 years as a Trustee, Chairman and CEO. His commitment to the cause and the passion that he has shown is recognised and valued by us all. I am delighted that he will remain a committed supporter as we move forward with our plans for the Charity”.