Leslie Clarke appointed permanent CEO of Pride Community Foundation

Pride Community Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to advancing equity, dignity, and opportunity for LGBTQ+ people, has announced that Leslie Clarke (formerly Leslie Pumm) has been officially appointed as the organisation’s permanent Chief Executive Officer, following a successful interim period.

Leslie, who has led the Foundation through an important phase of strategic development, governance reform, and community engagement, will now continue to build the organisation’s long-term direction as its CEO.

Leslie brings to the role a combination of lived experience, creative leadership, and deep commitment to equity and representation. Since stepping in as interim CEO, he has worked on building partnerships and the development of two new governance structures - the Advisory & Grants Board and the Community Scrutiny Board - both ensuring stronger accountability to LGBTQ+ communities and more inclusive decision-making across the Foundation’s work.

“It’s an honour to continue this work as permanent CEO of Pride Community Foundation,” Leslie said. “We have extraordinary partners, a clear mission, and a powerful community behind us. I’m excited for what’s next.”

This announcement marks a new chapter for the Foundation as it continues to build bold, community-driven programmes and fund initiatives that aims to make a lasting difference in LGBTQ+ lives across the South East and beyond.

Pride Community Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to advancing equity, dignity, and opportunity for LGBTQ+ people. Through grant-making, partnerships, and advocacy campaigns, PCF works to champion grassroots initiatives, build community power, and create a more inclusive future. The organisation also publishes Scene Magazine, the UK’s longest-running regional LGBTQ+ publication.

Picture credits: © Benny Dutka