We've appointed Paul Twocock as our Executive Director of External Affairs. Find out more about this role and hear from Paul in this latest blog.
We have today appointed Paul Twocock as Executive Director of External Affairs, following a rigorous recruitment process.
About the role
Paul will oversee the direction of the charity in highlighting the impact of the National Cycle Network.
He'll also oversee projects, research and events that Sustrans delivers throughout the year, including the forthcoming Walking and Cycling Index.
The role will also guide the charity’s relationships with decision-makers in local and national government, as well as leading organisations in the active travel and place-making sector.
In recent years Sustrans has achieved national attention for its research and campaigns, underlining the public demand for active travel in the UK.
Paul will help continue this momentum to deliver the charity’s mission of making it easier for everyone to walk, wheel and cycle.
Meet Paul, our new External Affairs Director
Paul joins Sustrans from his current role as Director of Communications and Public Affairs at the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services.
He has led campaigns, policy and research for Europe’s biggest LGBTQ+ charity, Stonewall (2015-19) and served as Stonewall’s interim Chief Executive (2019-2020).
He was a founding director of the Youth Endowment Fund, set up in 2020 to help prevent children from becoming involved in violence.
Building a diverse movement of people to achieve change
On his appointment, Paul said:
"I can’t wait to get started.
"The thing I love about Sustrans is that it’s focused on empowering people to make where they call home better for them, their family and their community.
"I've worked for quite a few charities and causes, and I know that the only way to achieve genuine social change is building a diverse movement of people to make it happen. Helping to do that is what attracted me to Sustrans.
"The only way to respond to the climate emergency is to make it something that we all have a stake in, and that will always start with the place where we live and the people we love.
"I’m looking forward to getting to know all the amazing people working and volunteering for Sustrans who are making change happen right now, and working out how I can help us have even more impact in the future."
Leading a team that highlights colleagues' profound impact
Xavier Brice, CEO of Sustrans said:
"We are delighted to welcome Paul as our Executive Director for External Affairs.
"Paul’s deep and broad experience will be integral in shaping our message and leading our External Affairs team that highlights the profound impact that our colleagues and volunteers deliver in communities across the UK.
"At a challenging time, charities have so much to contribute to UK society.
"Paul’s appointment will help Sustrans deliver on our mission of making walking, wheeling and cycling easier for everyone."
Find out more about our work to create healthier places and happier lives for everyone.
