John Hollingsworth MBA

Chief Philanthropy Officer

John is responsible for the Foundation’s developing practice as a regional hub and knowledge centre for community philanthropy. He leads the section of the Foundation’s team working to build more and better giving to benefit the area by cultivating and stewarding effective relationships with current and prospective donors. He also acts as a deputy to the CEO.

As a native of Tyneside, John launched his career in Edinburgh, Scotland, where he served in various posts with the National Trust for Scotland, the NHS, and Royal Bank of Scotland Group. These roles spanned corporate communications, marketing, community investment, and philanthropy.

Prior to joining the Foundation in 2022, John spent 10 years in the United States, where he held leadership positions with charities serving communities in Detroit and the state of Michigan. He has also supported numerous charities in a consulting capacity.