An experienced IT and finance figure has been appointed the new chair of trustees of a leading foodbank.

Simon Vincent, who has 25 years’ experience in the finance sector and more recently the technology side of the industry, has taken up the role at the Tunbridge Wells-based Nourish Community Foodbank.

He replaces solicitor Sue Smith who served in the role since 2022. She remains a trustee.

A spokesman for the organisation said: “Simon’s experience positions him uniquely to lead the organisation during a time when digital transformation and innovation are more important than ever.”

Nourish Community Foodbank was founded in 2012 with seed funding from Town & Country Housing Group and a matched investment from Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. In the 2022-23 financial year it made over 17,000 deliveries with 48% of the people it helps being children.

The new chair’s first official event was to attend the Kent Charity Awards held recently where the foodbank won the Best Use of Volunteers category.

Simon Vincent said: “It was humbling that Nourish was recognised for how our teams and volunteers work together.”