The Hunger Project-UK Announces New CEO

The Board of Trustees of The Hunger Project-UK is delighted to announce that Manda Lakhani has been appointed CEO of The Hunger Project-UK, effective 1st October 2025.

An advisor and advocate for courageous women leaders throughout her career, Manda brings an extensive background in marketing, leadership development, strategic planning, and coaching to this role.

“Manda is an excellent relationship builder and a passionate champion of The Hunger Project’s work,” said Dr Joanna Martin, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “Her ability to connect authentically with people and inspire them with our mission has been instrumental in growing our community of supporters. She brings both heart and strategy to everything she does, ensuring that our partnerships are not only meaningful but also transformative.”

Manda has been a committed part of The Hunger Project-UK for more than seven years, serving as Trustee, Co-Chair of the Board, and twice stepping into the role of Acting CEO (pro-bono) during times of transition. She has played a pivotal role in stabilising the organisation, strengthening governance, and spearheading successful fundraising initiatives. She re-launched the Unleashed Women programme in the UK, inspiring a powerful community of female leaders to step up, drive change, and stand in solidarity with grassroots women around the world.

Dr Joanna Martin added:

“Manda stepped down from the Board earlier this year, and over the past two months we have conducted an open and extensive CEO search. We were fortunate to meet several excellent candidates, but Manda’s deep experience, fundraising achievements, and established relationships with our investors, team, and global colleagues made her the outstanding choice. We are confident she will guide The Hunger Project-UK into its next phase of growth and help us mobilise even greater support in the UK for ending hunger and poverty worldwide.”

Over her 40-year career, Manda has held senior positions across financial services and strategic consulting, run two successful businesses and been an advisor to many charities. She holds an MBA in Finance from Bayes Business School. Manda lives in London with her husband Kanesh, and they have two grown up daughters.

Upon her appointment, Manda said:

“I am honoured to step into the role of CEO at The Hunger Project-UK at such a critical time in our mission to end global hunger and poverty. Having witnessed the transformative impact of our programmes first-hand, it is a privilege to work with our Board, our investors, and global colleagues as we expand our vital work. I am committed to building a stronger, more visible UK presence and inspiring even greater investment in our global mission.”