British Red Cross announces Helen Bennett and Gabrielle Inglis to join board of trustees

Helen Bennett is CEO at Weber Shandwick UK, bringing over 25 years of experience in integrated communications for leading global brands. With a track record spanning FMCG, retail, financial services and the not-for-profit sector, she is passionate about guiding organisations through complex change and issues. Helen has spent 18 years at Weber Shandwick in senior leadership roles, including Global Lead for Client Experience and London Managing Director, and has overseen award-winning campaigns for clients such as HSBC, Unilever, Aldi and Nike Foundation.

Gabrielle Inglis is a dedicated British Red Cross volunteer, delivering community education workshops that promote humanitarian values and confidence across communities. As a Wealth Management Associate in Royal Bank of Canada Brewin Dolphin’s specialist Charity Team, she supports trustees in managing charitable finances responsibly and in line with their missions and values. Gabrielle holds a master’s in international development and education, including fieldwork in India on philanthropy and donor influence in girls’ education.

Lewis Iwu and Geeta Nargund will both stand down from their roles on the board on the 31 December 2025 having served two full terms each totalling eight years on the board.  

Liz Padmore, chair of the British Red Cross, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Helen Bennett and Gabrielle Inglis to the board. Each brings valuable experience and insights that will strengthen our leadership and the impact of the British Red Cross.  

Helen’s extensive background in strategic communications will help us engage thoughtfully and effectively with diverse audiences. Her ability to navigate complex issues and foster collaboration will be an asset as we continue to build trust and clarity in everything we do.  

Gabrielle joins us following a competitive process for a trustee seat reserved for serving volunteers aged under 30. Building a board with diversity of thinking is vital and I am delighted that we will benefit from her perspective and passion as a young leader.  

We also thank Lewis Iwu and Geeta Nargund for their dedicated service as they step down after serving eight years. We’ve been fortunate to benefit from their expertise and commitment, and they will be greatly missed.” 

About the British Red Cross

For over 150 years, the British Red Cross has helped people in crisis, whoever and wherever they are. With millions of volunteers in over 190 countries, the British Red Cross is part of an international humanitarian Movement that’s there for people before, during and after a crisis. Together, we are the world’s emergency responders. www.redcross.org.uk