Toynbee Hall appoints Matt Dronfield as Interim Chief Executive
Toynbee Hall has appointed Matt Dronfield as Interim Chief Executive for an 18-month period, as the organisation prepares for its next strategic chapter.
The appointment follows a competitive recruitment process led by the Board of Trustees and a colleague subpanel.
Matt will lead Toynbee Hall through a period of transition and strategy development, with a focus on strengthening long-term sustainability and bringing together the organisation’s advice, community, research, policy and social change work around a clear shared purpose.
Matt has worked at Toynbee Hall for more than seven years and currently serves as Director of Advice Services. During that time, he has helped grow major partnerships, strengthen income, develop new models of support and lead innovation in access to advice. He also previously served as Acting Chief Executive, working with Trustees and senior colleagues to maintain organisational focus and continuity.
Stephen Burns, Chair of Trustees, said:
“Matt brings a strong combination of operational leadership, financial understanding and deep commitment to Toynbee Hall’s mission. The Board was impressed by his ability to provide stability while also looking ahead to the organisation’s future.“
“Toynbee Hall’s next chapter will be about connecting practical support, community power and evidence for change. Matt will work with Trustees, colleagues, partners and communities to help shape a strategy that reflects the full breadth of our work: from frontline advice and community connection to research, policy and wider social change.”
Matt will work alongside Rebecca Sycamore during the transition period ahead of her departure later this summer. The Board would like to thank Rebecca for her leadership, commitment and contribution to Toynbee Hall over the past three years.
Rebecca Sycamore, outgoing Chief Executive Officer said:
“I am delighted that Matt has been appointed to the role of Interim Chief Executive. He knows Toynbee Hall exceptionally well, brings strong relationships across the sector and has a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead.“
Matt Dronfield said:
“Toynbee Hall has spent more than 140 years working alongside people and communities to tackle poverty, injustice and inequality. It is a privilege to step into this role and support the organisation through its next chapter.“
“Our strength lies in the way we combine practical support with a bigger ambition for change. Over the next 18 months, my focus will be on bringing colleagues, partners and communities together around a clear shared purpose, strengthening the organisation for the future, and making sure Toynbee Hall continues to be bold about the difference it can make.”
Matt will take up the role on 8th July 2026.
