As Chairman of the EMED Foundation, Andrew brings leadership, curiosity and a deep belief in the power of community. With a career in the Armed Forces and a passion for giving back, he’s helped shape the Foundation’s direction from the very start.
What’s your favourite part of being a trustee?
The feeling of contributing to something bigger than little old me. I’ve been incredibly lucky in my life, and being able to play a small part in giving something back is incredibly exciting. Plus, I get to work with new people and learn something from them all. I’m just a curious type, though some would say nosey!
How would you describe the Foundation in three words?
Exciting, transformational, localised.
Which of our funding streams do you feel most passionate about?
That’s a tough one. I love both Jumpstart and Thrive, as they speak to so much of what’s important to me. But if I’ve got to choose, then it would be Thrive. Communities are the bedrock of our society, and helping them develop is the way we’ll build a better place to live.
What’s one thing you’ve learned since joining the Board?
Everyone has a different perspective, and everyone can contribute. In fact, I think the more diverse perspectives we get the better, they’ll help us support more people and ensure no community gets left behind.
What kind of impact do you think the Foundation will have?
I think it has the potential to drive real impact in the communities that EMED serves, and far wider than that. Relatively small contributions can make massive differences for so many people, and that’s a game changer.
If you could instantly fund any project tomorrow, what would it be?
Something to help young people from underprivileged backgrounds. I passionately believe that where you start in life shouldn’t determine the route you take or affect how far you can go.
What advice would you give someone thinking about applying for a grant?
Go for it. There’s funding available to help everyone. We clearly can’t give money to everyone, but if we can’t help I’d like to think we can offer other options that might. Don’t give up.
Why do you think support for hardship or volunteering matters?
I think it was Mike Tyson who said, “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face.” Sometimes we all get punched in the face, and when that happens I’d like to think the EMED Foundation can help get people back in the ring sooner than they might think possible.
What motivates you outside of work?
I’m a sport nut and very competitive, so any element of competition gets me going. And the older I’ve got, the more I’ve realised that helping others, giving something back, being outside in the elements and being with my family is what makes me happy.
What do you do when you’re not wearing your trustee hat?
I’ve served in the Armed Forces all my working life, and I absolutely love it, what we do, but most importantly the amazing people I work alongside. They are brave, kind and very funny. Mostly funny — I laugh every day, and when I leave, I’ll miss it more than I can say.
What’s a fun fact about you most people don’t know?
In 1983 I played cricket at Old Trafford and sang at the Albert Hall.
Do you have a favourite book, film or podcast that inspires you?
That’s easy. It’s got to be The Shawshank Redemption. I love the fact that Andy Dufresne never gives in, no matter what he endures, he just gets back up and gets through life.
Finish this sentence: “The EMED Foundation is…”
Going to change lives, inspire people and build better, stronger communities.
