Renfrewshire Foodbank appoints first Chief Executive as demand reaches record levels

Renfrewshire Foodbank has appointed Linda Kelly as its first Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant step for the organisation as demand for emergency food support continues across the region.

Last year the foodbank provided 5,426 emergency food parcels, supporting 10,405 people – including 3,310 children. It was also the first year the organisation had to purchase food to supplement donations, reflecting the increasing pressure on local families.

The newly created CEO role reflects both the scale of the foodbank’s work and its commitment to building a stronger, more sustainable organisation for the future.

Linda joins with senior leadership experience across Scotland’s charity sector. Most recently, she was Director of Income Diversification and Messaging at Right There, supporting people at risk of homelessness. She has previously held senior roles at Cyrenians and Ardgowan Hospice, leading fundraising, communications, and strategic development.

Linda Kelly said:

“I feel genuinely honoured to be taking on this role with Renfrewshire Foodbank.

Too many people are facing financial hardship, and food banks are providing vital support in communities across the country.

Food banks play an essential role in meeting immediate need, but they shouldn’t be the long-term answer to poverty. I’m looking forward to working with the team, volunteers and partners to support people through crisis with dignity, while also contributing to wider efforts to reduce the need for food banks in the future.”

Steve McManus, Chair of Trustees, said:

“Creating a CEO role is a significant step for us, and Linda is the right person to lead this next phase. She brings strong leadership experience alongside a clear understanding of both the urgency of what we do and the importance of building for the future.”

Renfrewshire Foodbank is part of the Trussell network, operating as an independent local charity. It works with over 170 referral partners and is supported by more than 100 volunteers, who contributed over 6,500 hours last year.

Alongside emergency food, the foodbank provides fuel vouchers, fresh food parcels, SIM cards, and travel support to help people access services.

Linda will spend her first weeks meeting volunteers, partners, and supporters across Renfrewshire.

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