After 22 years of transformative leadership, David Sanderson has announced his decision to step down as CEO of The Rank Foundation. David will formally step down on 5 June 2025.
David’s tenure has been marked by the development of a unique ‘relational’ approach to philanthropy that distinguishes the Foundation in the philanthropic sector.
David first joined The Rank Foundation as Director of Grants and Special Projects in 2002, a role that catalysed the Foundation’s evolution. Under his stewardship, the Foundation moved beyond traditional grant-making to embrace a model rooted in relationship-based philanthropy and this distinctive approach has become a defining feature of the Foundation’s work.
Reflecting on his time at the Foundation, David said,
“The Rank Foundation I joined, and the Rank Foundation today are scarcely recognisable. We’ve developed strategies, programmes and partnerships that enable our Network of social sector leaders to deliver meaningful, long-term change. It’s been an honour to be part of this transformation and my privilege to have built relationships with leaders across the UK who know they can rely on The Rank Foundation and its thriving Network for support.”
Key achievements during David’s tenure include the introduction of a range of flagship programmes such as Time to Shine and the Rank Aspire Programme, which have supported the development of hundreds of aspiring social sector leaders, along with the adoption and proliferation of long term, place-based funding.
The Rank Foundation’s place-based journey began in the East Lancashire mill town of Burnley, which had seen inter-racial violence erupt in 2001. Working alongside the police, Prince’s Trust and Business in the Community, David oversaw the funding of a cluster of community initiatives, which demonstrated the potential of concentrating time, knowledge and funding in a place.
Since then, Rank has made over £25 million in long-term investments in Hull, Dundee, Plymouth, Northern Ireland and Sunderland. Learning more about how to evaluate and deliver impact, draw in extensive partnership funding, and empower grassroots organisations with each investment.
But for David, the biggest success is the evolution of the Rank Network – a thriving group of 1,200 social sector leaders who are at the heart of the Foundation’s mission. He describes the Network as “the jewel in the crown,” noting its potential to drive learning, sharing, and collective action across the sector.
Regarding his successor, David expressed confidence in the Foundation’s future:
“Caroline Broadhurst, who has worked alongside me for over 15 years, has been appointed into the role of CEO. Caroline’s exceptional leadership and vision will take The Rank Foundation to new heights. Her deep understanding of our work and her commitment to our values make her the ideal choice to lead the next chapter.”
David plans to remain active in the philanthropic sector, offering his expertise as a consultant and advisor, after taking some time out and travelling in Africa.
The Rank Foundation’s Chair, Will Wyatt, said:
“David’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the Foundation that exists today. His legacy is one of innovation, collaboration, and a relentless focus on mission for impact. We thank him for his outstanding service and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”