Phillip Donnay

Philip Donnay is Chief Executive Officer of GLL and a founder member of the organisation. A qualified Chartered Accountant with more than 30 years' experience in the leisure, health, sport and cultural services sector, he has held a number of senior leadership roles within GLL, including Finance Director, Chief Finance Officer and Deputy Chief Executive.

Over three decades, Philip has helped shape GLL's development from a pioneering employee-owned social enterprise into one of the UK's largest charitable providers of public leisure and cultural services. He is passionate about the role these services play in improving health, wellbeing and opportunity, and is committed to ensuring GLL continues to deliver lasting social value for the communities it serves.

Philip has extensive experience in governance and organisational stewardship, having served on GLL's Board of Trustees for more than 25 years, including periods as Chair and Company Secretary. Throughout his career, he has played a significant role in strengthening the organisation's long-term sustainability, supporting growth, innovation and social impact across its diverse services.

A longstanding advocate for libraries and literacy, Philip has worked closely with GLL's Libraries division since its establishment. He also chairs the GLL Literary Foundation, helping to champion reading, learning and cultural engagement within local communities.

Known for his collaborative and values-led leadership style, Philip believes strongly in the power of employee ownership, partnership working and inclusive public services. He regularly represents GLL and the wider sector in discussions with government, local authorities and national stakeholders, advocating for the positive contribution that leisure, health and cultural services make to stronger, healthier and more connected communities.