In Kind Direct announces new chairman

In Kind Direct, the charity founded by HRH The Prince of Wales to co-ordinate UK-wide in-kind giving, announces the appointment of David Thomas CBE, who this week stands down as chief executive of Whitbread plc, as Chairman of the Board of Trustees. He succeeds Alan Jones OBE, who has chaired the charity's board since operations began in 1997.

Sir Tom Shebbeare, Director of Charities to HRH The Prince of Wales commented "David Thomas has supported In Kind Direct since its beginning including serving on the Finance Committee. We are extremely lucky to secure such an exceptional individual to chair the charity."

David Thomas has been a trustee of In Kind Direct since 1997, when he was appointed Chief Executive of Whitbread plc. He is a Non-Executive Director of Xansa plc, Sandown Park Racecourse and a trustee of People 1st.

"I am delighted to have David as chairman," says Robin Boles, In Kind Direct's Chief Executive since the charity's outset. "His intimate knowledge of the charity, wisdom and many skills will be crucial as we enter a second and more mature phase of In Kind Direct's development."