John Nolan

Background

About John Nolan

Strategic leader with 25+ years of experience driving community impact, youth engagement, and social value programmes. I specialise in building partnerships that deliver measurable results for both organisations and society, with expertise spanning CSR, ESG strategy, policy development, and programme sustainability. Currently leading flagship initiatives at Westminster City Council, including the City Lions programme, which has grown from 700 to 2,500+ young participants through innovative partnerships with cultural and educational organisations. I have a proven record of creating scalable, cost-effective models for social impact — from transforming the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award into a self-sustaining programme rolled out nationally, to designing civic engagement events that brought together thousands of stakeholders. My background also includes founding and directing an outdoor education company, as well as early career experience in property and finance, where I managed complex investment and development projects. This blend of commercial insight and social impact leadership allows me to align corporate objectives with community benefit. I am passionate about leveraging CSR and ESG to drive positive change, strengthen stakeholder relationships, and create long-term value. The programme connects 13-16 year olds to creative and cultural opportunities and places that they may not have discovered on their own. Through innovative thinking, unique insight into young people, Westminster has delivered a successful programme from scratch that has seen over 800 young people a year benefit from new experiences. Including large scale event with London Theatres and Festival groups giving young people one-of-a-kind opportunities that they have loved.