- Organisation: London Community Foundation
- Role: Interim Chief Executive Officer
- Date of Appointment: March 2024
About
London Community Foundation (LCF) are a localised foundation that provides key unrestricted and restricted funding to grassroots organisations across London. The Foundation focuses on funding organisations supporting those most disadvantaged within London and has awarded over £127 million in grants to achieve this mission.
The Brief
Following a recent strategy refresh, the organisation identified the need for interim leadership to review and strengthen its business model, ensuring long-term sustainability and impact. Prospectus was appointed to deliver a swift and focused search for an Interim Chief Executive Officer to lead this critical phase.
Working closely with the Board, we developed a brief centred on securing an experienced interim leader with a strong track record in organisational change, financial sustainability and the charitable funding landscape. The successful candidate would need to operate at pace, quickly assess priorities and lead a review of core business areas, while supporting the senior team and Board through change.
Our Approach
Given the urgent nature of the appointment, we undertook a targeted search, drawing on our network of senior interim leaders across the charity and social impact sectors. The campaign attracted 84 applicants within a two-week period, reflecting both the strength of the opportunity and the effectiveness of our reach. From this, three candidates were shortlisted and progressed to interview.
The Outcome
Paul Buchanan was successfully appointed within two weeks of the role going live. He brought extensive experience as an interim CEO and senior leader, with a strong track record in leading organisational change and developing commercial strategy. His previous roles with In Kind Direct and Business in the Community, alongside his board and trustee experience, ensured he could quickly add value across strategy, finance and governance.
Following a successful interim period, Paul was subsequently appointed as permanent Chief Executive Officer in April 2025, providing continuity of leadership and reinforcing the long-term value of the appointment.
If you would like support in sourcing exceptional talent into a leadership role in your organisation, find out more about our Executive Search Service or Charity Board Recruitment Service.