Sir Richard Collas has been appointed as the new chair of the Guernsey Community Foundation. He succeeds one of the Foundation’s founders, Wayne Bulpitt, who has stepped down after six years in the role.
“I’ve long been impressed by the work of the Foundation,” said Sir Richard, who retired as Bailiff in 2020. “The island needs a not-for-profit organisation that’s able to harness the power of philanthropy and direct it, in a smart, targeted way, towards worthy causes. I’m looking forward to joining an experienced board and a hardworking executive team.”
Sir Richard, who was guest speaker at last year’s Community Awards, paid tribute to his predecessor. “Wayne took the Foundation from strength to strength, helping it become what it is today: an honest broker and critical friend that works with charities, government and business to improve the quality of life within the Bailiwick.”
Sir Richard said he recognised the challenges that Guernsey faced. “As we continue to deal with the effects of Covid, reliance on local charities will only increase. The Foundation’s role in supporting the sector, financially and otherwise, is vital.
“But the Foundation’s function and influence extends beyond the third sector,” he added. “Both independently and with government, we research and propose social and environmental policies which we believe will be of benefit to the islands.”
A Patron of the Foundation Stuart Falla, who chaired the appointments panel that offered Sir Richard the role, said; “We are delighted that Sir Richard has accepted this position. His legal background, his knowledge of the mechanics of government, and his connections to the third sector all make him ideal. I know that he’ll put his heart and soul into the role, and help the organisation build on the very strong foundations that Wayne and his colleagues have built over the years.”
Sir Richard’s career has been split between law and public service. After a successful career in law that led him to become a partner at Collas Day & Rowland, he was appointed to the office of Deputy Bailiff in 2005 and then in 2012 became the 89th Bailiff of Guernsey. In 2014 he was awarded a knighthood in recognition of his services.
When in private practice, Sir Richard was involved in a number of charities and served as Chair of Les Bourgs Hospice Charitable Trust. As Deputy Bailiff and Bailiff he was President or Patron of a number of not for profit organisations. Since retirement, he has become a director with Help A Guernsey Child and Les Bourgs Hospice, and is involved in a wide range of community activities and initiatives.
