Sir Edward Braham named New Chair of the Charities Aid Foundation

The Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) has announced a significant change in its leadership. Sir Edward Braham, a professional and financial services expert, will become the new Chair of the CAF in July 2025. He will replace James Leigh-Pemberton, who has held the role since January 2019.

Who is Sir Edward Braham?

Sir Edward has a distinguished professional and financial services career and is currently Chair of M&G plc. He is also a non-executive member of the HM Treasury Board and Chair of the Lord Mayor’s Appeal Board of Trustees.  

Edward Braham was knighted in the King’s New Year Honors list for services to Corporate Law and Business, solidifying his reputation as a transformative leader. Since joining  M&G in 2022, he has overseen a transformation and growth program that gives everyone absolute confidence in putting their money to work.

Before this, Edward was the Senior Partner of the global law firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP. During that time, he spearheaded its US expansion and the opening of its pioneering office in Silicon Valley.

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Edward has played a significant role in promoting London as a leading international financial center, as Chair of The City UK’s International Trade Investment Group and as a Board member. Sir Edward will succeed Sir James Leigh-Pemberton, who joined the Board in April 2018 and has been Chair of CAF since January 2019. 

CAF is a leading charity working at the center of the giving world. It helps donors give more impactfully and charities build their resilience to do more life-changing work. For over a century, it has led the way in developing innovative approaches to giving. 

CAF partners with corporate and individual donors to enable them to give more effectively and impactfully. Annually, they distribute over £1 billion to non-profits worldwide.

Their strategic advice and specialist services help charities and social enterprises strengthen their resilience. Using their research and policy expertise, they help shape the broader environment for charities and donors. 

According to them, they work to accelerate progress in society towards a fair and sustainable future for all.

Edward Braham’s vision for the Charities Aid Foundation

“I am delighted to have been appointed as the new Chair of CAF; it plays a truly unique role in bringing together donors and charities, which has never been more needed to respond to challenges in the UK and globally,” said Braham, who is a former mergers and acquisitions lawyer.

He looks forward to working with his fellow trustees and the broader organization to support CAF’s fantastic work.

“I am delighted to welcome Edward as the new Chair of CAF. He will bring an enormous amount to leading our organization in the coming years. Edward brings extensive experience in the US and the UK. He has real enthusiasm for and insightful commitment to several philanthropy roles.” CAF’s Chief Executive, Neil Heslop OBE, commented.

He remarked that they are incredibly grateful to Sir James for his seven years of distinguished service on their Board and as Chair. He has skilfully overseen such a significant period for CAF, including helping them to navigate challenges.

The future of Charities Aid Foundation

During his tenure as Chair, Sir James Leigh-Pemberton said it has been a privilege to Chair CAF’s Board of Trustees during extraordinary events. One hundred years after its founding, CAF is making more of a difference than ever, thanks to the generosity of engaged donors and charities committed to helping those in need.

He expressed his delight in handing over to Edward at such a critical time for the organization and the philanthropy sector. He appreciated all their partners, colleagues, and fellow Trustees for their hard work and unwavering dedication and for all they do to support charities worldwide in navigating challenges such as the pandemic and marking their centenary.

With Sir Edward Braham at the helm, CAF looks set to further its influence, ensuring donors and charities can continue making a difference in an evolving world. His expertise in finance and law and passion for philanthropy make him an ideal leader to take CAF into its next chapter.