John Robertson steps down as CEO of sector-leading food relief organisation, Foodbank NSW & ACT

Media Release

After almost nine years at the state and territory’s largest and most trusted food relief organisation, John Roberston will be stepping down from his role as Chief Executive Officer.

Having volunteered for seven years prior to joining the team as Executive General Manager in 2017, then serving as Chief Operating Officer and eventually commencing as CEO in 2020, Mr Robertson’s contribution to Foodbank NSW & ACT has been nothing short of exceptional.

Under his leadership, Foodbank NSW & ACT has grown substantially in reach, impact, and operational capability, measured not just in tonnes of food distributed, but in lives changed and community trust earned.

His tenure has seen significant growth in food relief volumes and agency partnerships, an increased investment in infrastructure and logistics, the strengthening of donor, partnership and government relationships, and a measured increase in the awareness of food insecurity at a policy level.

And most importantly, an unfaltering commitment to making a difference to those struggling to put food on the table across NSW and the ACT.

Formally concluding his position at the end of June, Mr Robertson will pass the torch to current Chief Operating Officer and incoming Chief Executive Officer, Samantha Prescott.

Mr Robertson described his time at Foodbank NSW & ACT as “one of the greatest privileges of his career”.

“It has been incredibly satisfying to have had the opportunity to lead Foodbank NSW & ACT – an organisation at which I started as a volunteer back in 2011,”

“I have worked with amazingly passionate staff and volunteers, and I am so proud of what we as a team have achieved.

“Over my time with Foodbank, I have met people who are dealing with the realities of food insecurity amid the growing cost-of-living crisis. Many of those have shared deeply personal stories of the impact it has had on them and their families.

“These are the people who both inspired and drove me to do more during my time with Foodbank.

“I know Samantha shares that same empathy and drive to make life better for those doing it tough in our communities, and that’s why I’m confident she will continue to lead Foodbank NSW & ACT forward to support those facing hunger across the state and territory.”

John Robertson

CEO, Foodbank NSW & ACT

Having been involved in some of the organisation’s most significant operational milestones, Mrs Prescott has stood at the heart of Foodbank NSW & ACT’s operational engine for several years, driving efficiency, leading frontline teams, and building the systems that underpin their ability to respond at scale.

Due to officially commence on July 6, Mrs Prescott said she was “honoured and humbled” to step into the role.

“John has built something truly special here, and I am committed to building on that foundation alongside the rest of the Foodbank NSW & ACT team,”

“Our mission, to provide essential food and grocery items to people who need it, is more important than ever, and I look forward to leading this work together.”