Introducing Our New Vice Presidents
24th March 2026
We are delighted to announce the appointment of three new Vice Presidents, recognising their outstanding contributions to ECF and their long-standing commitment to the communities we serve across Essex.
The Vice President role is an honorary position, awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to our mission and values. As ambassadors for the Foundation, our Vice Presidents play an important role in championing local philanthropy, strengthening partnerships and supporting efforts to improve the lives of people and communities across Essex.
Our newly appointed Vice Presidents each bring a wealth of experience and a long-standing connection to the Foundation.
Sandra Hollis served as a Trustee of ECF for eight years, during which time she was an active member of the Fund Development Committee. Alongside her contribution to the Foundation, Sandra has built a distinguished career in strategic business development and marketing, managing global relationships with some of the world’s largest banks and brokers. She has also held senior leadership roles in higher education, including serving as Pro Vice-Chancellor at Anglia Ruskin University
Nick Alston CBE DL stepped down in November 2025 after six years as Chair and eight years overall as a Trustee at ECF, handing over to current Chair Atul Manek. Nick was previously elected as Essex’s first Police and Crime Commissioner in 2012 and went on to serve as High Sheriff of Essex in 2022/23. He continues his public and voluntary service work Vice Chair of Governors at Anglia Ruskin University and Chair of the Essex-based drug and alcohol recovery charity Open Road.
Simon Hall MBE DL also served as a Trustee of ECF for the full term of eight years until 2025, bringing significant governance expertise and a deep understanding of the charitable sector. A qualified solicitor, Simon spent many years as a partner at international law firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, where he led the Finance Practice and oversaw global corporate responsibility programmes. He is a Deputy Lieutenant of Essex and continues to support a number of organisations as a trustee of several Essex-based charities
As we continue our work to connect people who care with causes that matter, the support and advocacy of our Vice Presidents will remain an important part of our success, drawing on their collective experience and their extensive knowledge across different areas of industry, civic society and the voluntary sector.
Together, these appointments reflect our deep appreciation for the time and valued insight and each individual has given to ECF and the wider community in Essex. Their continued involvement as Vice Presidents will help to strengthen our reach, influence and ability to respond to local need.
You can view the full list of all our Vice Presidents here.