Penny Newman

Penny Newman joined Platform 51 as Chief Executive in January 2011. Platform 51 is a leading charity which inspires and supports women and girls to take control of their lives. Its activities, programmes and campaigns are run through its 13 centres around England and Wales and also through schools, community centres, youth clubs and prisons. Prior to this, Penny was Chief Executive Officer of The Jamie Oliver Foundation (formerly the Fifteen Foundation). During this time, Penny lead the transformation of the Foundation, diversifying its income streams and increasing its social activities and support of vulnerable young people. Before joining The Jamie Oliver Foundation, Penny was CEO of Cafédirect PLC - the UK's largest 100% Fairtrade hot drinks company. For the ten years Penny led Cafédirect, she pioneered a profitable if unconventional business model, achieving exceptional financial and social returns. In 2004 she led the largest public ethical share issue in the UK raising £5m in four months. Penny is also a director of Social Finance, and last year was appointed director of the Social Enterprise Mark Company.