Barnes – who will start his new job in September 2016 – will replace Gillian Barker who has been director general for the past 14 years.
“This is a hugely exciting role to take on in the grocery area,” said Barnes. “I am privileged and humbled to inherit a fantastic team in a supportive industry to serve the beneficiaries or GroceryAid.
“The assistance given from the industry to those in need is inspiring and I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to drive even greater awareness of the charity.”
Barnes started his career evaluating sites for Safeway, Presto and Lo-Cost stores before spending 17 years working for grocery think-tank IGD.
Barker – who announced her retirement in February of this year – will leave in November 2016.
“I am delighted that Steve has been appointed as my successor,” said Barker. “I am more confident that GroceryAid will continue to support our industry colleagues under his stewardship.”
GroceryAid is a charity which provides welfare support for people who have worked or are working in the grocery industry.
GroceryAid mission statement
Making life better for grocery people in need; from factory to store, we help everyone.