Leeds Community Foundation Appoints New Director of Philanthropy

Josh Lawrence to lead fundraising and partnerships across Leeds and Bradford

Leeds Community Foundation and GiveBradford have announced the appointment of Josh Lawrence as their new Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships. Born and raised in Leeds with family connections to Bradford, Lawrence brings over ten years of experience in philanthropy and corporate fundraising in both the UK and Australia.

Professional background and experience

Before joining Leeds Community Foundation and GiveBradford, Lawrence held the position of Head of Corporate Partnerships at St John Ambulance. In this role, he was responsible for managing strategic relationships that supported the expansion of the organisation’s community services. His previous roles include senior positions at Ronald McDonald House Charities Western Australia and Curtin University, where he developed major donor and corporate giving programmes aimed at delivering long-term community benefits.

Role and objectives

In his new role, Lawrence will oversee the Foundation’s fundraising and partnership strategies. He will work closely with individuals, businesses, and philanthropic partners to generate sustainable investment in the communities of Leeds and Bradford.

Lawrence commented on his appointment, stating that joining the Foundation and GiveBradford represents a return to his home region and aligns with his personal and professional interests. He emphasised the importance of building strong partnerships based on shared purpose and mutual value, which he believes can lead to significant and lasting community impact.

Community investment and future plans

Leeds Community Foundation has invested approximately £70 million in communities across Leeds and Bradford over the past two decades. Lawrence’s role will focus on expanding this legacy by increasing participation and demonstrating how accessible philanthropy can be.

He highlighted the importance of flexible funding for grassroots groups, allowing them to be creative and resilient. Lawrence also noted the vital role of businesses in community investment, stating that their success is closely linked to the wellbeing of the city and that community engagement can benefit workplace culture and corporate reputation.

Leadership and upcoming engagements

Steph Taylor, Chief Executive of Leeds Community Foundation, welcomed Lawrence’s appointment, noting his extensive experience and passion for connecting generosity with local impact. She indicated that his leadership will be key in strengthening relationships and inspiring new investment from businesses and individuals.

Lawrence’s first public engagement in his new role will be at The Business of Giving event, organised in partnership with Leeds University Business School. The event marks twenty years of local impact across Leeds and Bradford and aims to reinforce a shared commitment to inclusive growth and cross-sector collaboration.

Currently completing an MBA in Executive Leadership, Lawrence said this education is helping him bring new ideas and a values-led approach to his work. He expressed enthusiasm about joining a team dedicated to the wellbeing of Leeds and Bradford and looks forward to contributing to the Foundation’s future work.

Source: Leeds Community Foundation