Rebecca brings over 15 years of experience leading cross-sector work across social and health issues in the charitable and philanthropic sectors. She spent over six years at Impact on Urban Health, and for two of those led the Children’s Health and Food Programme as Programme Director. Whilst there, she worked in partnership across the food system to advance health equity and to successfully shape school food policy in London and nationally.
Most recently, Rebecca has been in a senior leadership role at Heart of the City, leading their responsible business and climate programmes. Rebecca sits on the Member’s Panel for NEST pensions, the UK's largest workplace pension provider.
In her spare time, Rebecca is the Co-Founder and Maitre d’ of a London-based pop-up restaurant which showcases seasonal ingredients and promotes connection through food. She has an interest in wine and viticulture and holds WSET wine qualifications.
Liz Gadd, Eating Better Vice Chair who led the recruitment said of the appointment:
"We are happy to announce Rebecca Sunter as Eating Better's Executive Director (Interim) to cover Sarah's maternity leave. Rebecca brings with her a wealth of experience. She stood out in a competitive interview process for her values alignment, knowledge of the food system and leadership in working collaboratively with civil society groups, most notably on school food.
Rebecca brings particular strengths in partnering across the food system to achieve social and health impact having spent over six years at Impact on Urban Health, where latterly she led the Children’s Health and Food Programme.
Most recently, Rebecca has been in a senior leadership role at Heart of the City, leading their responsible business and climate programmes.
Sarah and Rebecca are working closely together on handover until Sarah leaves in mid-September and Rebecca officially steps into the role. On behalf of the board of trustees I welcome Rebecca and we look forward to working with her in this important year for shaping UK food policy."
Sarah Wakefield, Executive Director, Eating Better has said:
"I am delighted to be leaving Eating Better in such capable hands. Eating Better is a unique and special alliance of unusual suspects working together to transform the food system, and Rebecca brings the skills and culture we need to lead us into the next year. I know she will ensure we continue to drive forward the change we need to see for people, planet and animals."
Rebecca Sunter, incoming Executive Director (interim) said:
“I am delighted to be stepping into the role of Executive Director at Eating Better and building on Sarah and the team’s important work whilst she is on maternity leave. This is a critical time for our food system, with food policy change and impetus for business action on the agenda. I look forward to working with an incredible alliance of organisations, and continuing to foster collaboration and action that drives transformational impact for people and planet.”
