#130 Embracing a new challenge, Crispin Truman OBE Director of The Rayne Foundation

Welcome Crispin Truman OBE, Director of The Rayne Foundation. This grant-making charity supports a wide range of organisations including young people’s mental health, carers of the elderly, providing opportunities for refugees, as well as the arts. Crispin has been dedicated to making a positive difference throughout his career and volunteer work. He held several leadership roles for leading non-profits in heritage, mental health, the countryside, and voluntary roles on the board of a school and charities before joining the foundation as their Director in October 2022.

Crispin's academic background includes studying PPE (Philosophy, Politics & Economics BA), and Applied Social Studies (MSc) at Oxford University before starting his professional career as a social worker in London. Crispin did not let personal challenges stop him from achieving academically. He lost his father at a young age and moved to Bristol, where his new school, Ashton Park Comprehensive, did not have a history of Oxbridge entrance. Modestly, Crispin attributes his success at winning a place at Oxford to one of his inspirational teachers, along with the support and encouragement he received from his mother.

Alongside his passion for the charity sector, Crispin is also an avid cyclist, riding into work each day in central London. He is a firm believer in the positive impact cycling can have on individual health and reducing our impact on the environment. He Chaired the London Cycling Campaign at the turn of the century, fighting for cyclists' rights and safety. His dedication to the voluntary sector and Civil Society saw him awarded an OBE (Officer of the British Empire) in the 2017 New Year’s Honours List.

The Rayne Foundation was founded in 1962 by Lord Rayne, a successful property developer operating in post-war London. The foundation was established with the mission to enhance communities and build bridges that connect people and communities. With a large donation from Lord Rayne's commercial dealings, the foundation has an endowment of close to $100 million today, and each year the charity donates the interest plus any additional increase in capital to causes that match their themes.

Crispin's previous roles include CEO of CPRE, the countryside charity, CEO of the Churches Conservation Trust and Revolving Doors Agency. He has chaired and been a trustee of several organisations, including UK and European heritage networks, Rethink Mental Illness, the London Cycling Campaign, and was chair of governors at Stoke Newington School and Sixth Form in London.