Peak District Foundation announces three new staff appointments

7th September 2023

The Peak District National Park Foundation has welcomed three new members of staff to develop its work in raising vital funds for biodiversity, landscape restoration and engagement.

Roisin Joyce joins in a new director role, with Hayley Grainger as fundraising manager and Faye Smith as communications and admin.

The Foundation is the official charity of the Peak District National Park Authority and helps to generate funds for projects which care for the landscape and wildlife, help to fight climate change and connect people from all backgrounds to nature and the outdoors.

Before joining the Foundation as director, Roisin was the development director for HOME in Manchester, the largest arts centre outside London.

She previously held key fundraising roles with diverse cultural, educational and humanitarian charities in London and overseas. Roisin is passionate about the National Park, having grown up walking its trails with her family. She is a keen climber, mountain biker, swimmer and general outdoors lover. 

Fundraising manager Hayley has lived all over the world, working in events and travel and tourism for the last ten years through Europe, Japan and New Zealand. Hayley is extremely passionate about the National Park, having grown up on the doorstep, enjoying many a weekend hiking, biking and camping in the hills and is now back living on the eastern edge of the National Park to continue doing much of the same.

Communications and admin officer Faye previously ran an award-winning communications consultancy supporting the region’s non-profit and start up sectors. She is looking forward to supporting the work of the Foundation and growing its media presence.

Keen Rambler Faye is a regular media spokesperson on the healing power of walking in nature and recently retrained as a Wellness Walk leader, pilgrim guide, mental health supporter and bereavement befriender.

Roisin said:

“The Peak District National Park is the oldest and most visited park in the country – a place that means so much to so many people, including myself. The Foundation is at a unique point of growth, and I am hugely excited at the opportunities to build philanthropy and partnerships within and for the Peak District National Park.”

Chair of Trustees Jen Lowthrop, who is currently embarking on the huge challenge of walking across all 10 English National Parks to raise money for the Foundation added:

“We are delighted at these key appointments which couldn’t come at a more opportune time in the Foundation’s development. Under Roisin’s leadership, we are confident the Foundation will have a growing impact in increasing biodiversity, habitat restoration and widening inclusivity in the park, especially among under-represented and marginalised groups.”

To discover how individuals and businesses can support the Peak District National Park and the new Partnership Programme, contact hello@peakdistrictfoundation.org.uk