The Wave Project surf charity appoints permanent chair

The Wave Project, the Cornwall-headquartered surf therapy charity, has appointed its interim chair on a permanent basis. Brett Simpson has been working with the organisation for six years, first as a volunteer in Scotland and as a trustee since 2020.

The Wave Project offers surf therapy courses funded by a government health service. Based in Newquay, the charity works across the South West including in Bristol and Devon, but has also expanded to the North East of England, North Yorkshire, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Isle of Wight, Brighton and London.

Mr Simpson previously worked as a leader of global specialist technology and manufacturing businesses, implementing strategy and developing investor support. He now has a portfolio of non-executive and advisory roles, helping management teams deliver shareholder value.

"I am delighted that the trustees have asked me to continue in the chair role," he said. "With a lifetime love of the ocean and surfing it was a no-brainer for me to try volunteering with the Dunbar project a few years ago. Since then, I have been gripped by what we do and the impact we have. I'm very excited about the next chapter of The Wave Project and look forward to working with the team.”

Ramon Van de Velde, chief executive of The Wave Project, added: "His entrepreneurial spirit, and board experience in various sectors, has already proven invaluable for us. I am very much looking forward to continue to work closely with Brett and the rest of our strong board to continuously increase our positive impact on the lives of children and young people."

Earlier this month, The Wave Project secured £30,000 from Wooden Spoon - the children’s charity of rugby. The grant will be used by The Wave Project to continue its work across Dorset, Isle of Wight, Cornwall, Devon and Scotland.