Michael has a substantial business growth experience having been involved in many major commercial projects including British Steel and BT Global Challenge Round the World Yacht Races, Reuters Global Golf Challenge and Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards to name but a few. He has always dovetailed educational, environmental and community charitable dimensions into his commercial projects. Over his 25 years working in the corporate and charity sectors he has been retained by many charities to give advice on revenue generation, notably corporate philanthropy.
Michael is a serving JP in Dorset and undertakes a number of community based educational roles and was until recently Chairman of the Dorset Magistrates Association and a national Trustee. He is member of the Society of Dorset Men and Patron of Sherborne and District Dementia Action Alliance.
Over the years Michael has been involved in local government, at parish, district and county levels and was Chairman of the Dorset County Council Environmental Committee. Under his chairmanship the committee produced a publication ‘Caring for Dorset’ which became a template for many groups interested in progressing environmental issues. More recently he was involved for six years with the Sherborne Citizens Advice Bureau and as Chairman oversaw the merger of the Sherborne and Dorchester offices.
On the personal, note Michael has, as he calls it, a sailing t-shirt. He has raced around the world from east to west against the prevailing winds and currents. He has 36,000 miles on his nautical log and is a very proud member of the International Association of Cape Horners.
Tracy Melling, Chief Executive commented: ‘We are delighted to welcome Michael as our new Chairman. His extensive experience in corporate and charitable revenue generation and leadership skills are well suited to lead the Board of Trustees to implement a successful development strategy which will enable the Foundation to help even more people in need across Dorset.’
Michael commented: ‘I am delighted to join the Dorset Community Foundation as Chairman and look forward to being part of an exceptional and dedicated team.’
For more bio details on our new Chairman Michael and our Patrons and Trustees please click here.
