RNIB welcomes new Chief Social Change Officer
Vivienne Francis, former Director of Communications and The Foundation at The Disabilities Trust, joins RNIB
The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) has announced the appointment of its new Chief Social Change Officer. Vivienne Francis starts the role in September 2022.
The brand-new role has been created to help RNIB deliver its ambitious new strategy which aims to tackle the root cause of inequality by challenging misconceptions and stereotypes to create a more inclusive society.
Vivienne joins RNIB from The Disabilities Trust, where she held the role of Director of Communications and The Foundation and was responsible for brand, communications, fundraising and policy development.
Prior to joining The Disabilities Trust, Vivienne held a number of senior marketing and external affairs roles, including Director of Marketing and External Affairs at Alzheimer’s Society where she launched the hugely successful United Against Dementia campaign. Previously Vivienne was Director of Communications at Prostate Cancer UK, where she oversaw a well-received rebrand and drive to engage men with their prostate health.
Vivienne Francis said: "I’m thrilled to be joining RNIB later this year and getting stuck into the challenge of driving positive social change. The world has changed beyond recognition since RNIB started its work more than 150 years ago, but blind and partially sighted people are still fighting for equality. I’m excited to integrate different functions across RNIB to bring an innovative and thought-provoking approach to tackling outdated stereotypes and misconceptions.”
RNIB CEO Matt Stringer said: “We’re delighted to welcome Vivienne to the team. Vivienne has extensive experience within the charity and disability sector and will play a pivotal role in RNIB’s work to create a society where blind and partially sighted people can participate equally.”