New leadership structure at Thinks

Shimshon (pictured, left), has been with London-based Thinks since he co-founded the business in 2010 with Viki Cooke and Deborah Mattinson, who has since left the business. He has acted as managing partner for the past three years.

BritainThinks became employee-owned in 2020 and, along with its subsidiary company WorldThinks, changed its name to Thinks in 2023.

Shimshon will lead the development and delivery of the company strategy. He reports to Viki Cooke, co-founder and chair, and the Employee Ownership Trust board, chaired by Mark Smith, formerly chief financial officer at Chime.

Thinks has also promoted Richenda Devereux (pictured, right) to the role of operations partner. Devereux has worked at the business since 2019, recently overseeing the modernisation of project management and operational activities. She also leads Thinks’ B-Corp certification and sustainability efforts.    

Cooke said: "Ben has proven himself to be a great leader since the day we set up the business – he is one of the best strategic insight people I have ever worked with and continues to inspire excellence in the business. 

"Richenda has been truly instrumental in shaping Thinks to be a great, purpose led business and a brilliant place to work."

Based in Somerset House, Thinks works with clients including the Financial Conduct Authority, Shelter and the Trades Union Congress.