Plunkett UK Announces Two New Appointments to Strengthen Support for Rural Community Businesses

Plunkett UK has made two key appointments to bolster its work supporting rural community-owned businesses.

David Lydiat has joined as Head of External Affairs, a newly created role bringing together policy, communications and membership. With a background in public affairs and trade associations, David will be helping to raise the profile of the rural community business sector, advocate for supportive policy change, and grow Plunkett’s membership network.

Meanwhile, George Ogier has been appointed as the charity’s first Impact Officer. After two years as Project Support Officer, George will now focus on embedding Plunkett’s core values across its work—championing inclusion, climate action, and local economic resilience.

Plunkett currently supports over 800 community-owned businesses, with many more in development. These appointments reflect the growing momentum of the sector and the charity’s continued commitment to helping rural communities thrive.

For more information, visit www.plunkett.co.uk