The Fine & Country Foundation has strengthened its governance and long-term strategic vision with the appointment of two senior industry figures to its Trustee Board, reinforcing its commitment to tackling homelessness and poverty.
Nicky Stevenson, Managing Director of Fine & Country, and Ben Dodds, Chief Financial Officer of The Property Franchise Group, have joined the charity as Trustees. Their appointments further enhance the experience and expertise of the board, which also includes Sean Newman and Emilie Despois, Chief Marketing Officer of Fine & Country and Chair of the Foundation.
As Trustees, the board members serve as custodians of The Foundation’s purpose and values. They are collectively responsible for setting strategic direction, ensuring robust governance, overseeing financial stewardship and maintaining full legal compliance. Together, they ensure that every decision supports The Foundation’s mission to deliver public benefit and meaningful social impact.
Commenting on her appointment, Nicky Stevenson said The Foundation exemplifies what the property industry can achieve when united by a shared purpose. “I have seen first-hand the extraordinary commitment of the Fine & Country network to supporting those experiencing homelessness and poverty,” she said. “I am proud to take on the role of Trustee and to help guide The Foundation’s future impact.”
Ben Dodds echoed this sentiment, highlighting the charity’s strong financial discipline and effectiveness. “The Foundation has an impressive track record of ensuring that funds raised are used efficiently and responsibly to deliver meaningful change,” he said. “I am delighted to be joining the Trustee Board and look forward to supporting the charity’s continued growth, strong governance and long-term sustainability.”
Founded in 2014, The Fine & Country Foundation was established to address the urgent and complex issues of homelessness and poverty. Supported by the wider Fine & Country network, the charity provides financial assistance to a broad range of organisations through its biannual grant programme, alongside additional donations made throughout the year to support urgent and emerging needs.
Fundraising across the network has been both creative and ambitious. Over the years, supporters have taken part in marathons, golf days, Tough Mudder challenges, Sleep Out events, mountain climbs, skydives, swims across the English Channel and numerous other initiatives. This collective effort has resulted in more than £1 million being raised and donated, underlining the significant role the property sector can play in driving positive social change.
While The Foundation organises fundraising events throughout the year, many Fine & Country agents independently develop their own initiatives to raise funds and awareness at a local level. This grassroots approach has been key to the charity’s success, with supporters consistently contributing their time, energy and financial backing to the cause.
A defining feature of The Fine & Country Foundation is its commitment to efficiency. Operating with minimal running costs, the charity ensures that close to 100 per cent of all funds raised are directed towards those in need, maximising the impact of every donation and enabling sustained support for communities across the UK and beyond.
Emilie Despois said the new appointments mark an important milestone for the charity. “As someone who has been involved with The Fine & Country Foundation since its inception, I am incredibly proud of the impact it continues to make,” she said. “The appointment of Nicky Stevenson and Ben Dodds significantly strengthens our Trustee Board, bringing senior leadership, financial expertise and deep industry insight that will help guide The Foundation’s next phase of growth.”
With its reinforced leadership team in place, The Fine & Country Foundation looks ahead with renewed focus as it continues its vital work supporting those affected by homelessness and poverty.
