Former Olympian Rachel Clift has joined Ben as the automotive sector charity’s health and wellbeing director.

The independent charity, which provides support for life for automotive sector employees and their dependents, has appointed the former Team GB hockey player to lead its health and wellbeing services.

Clift, who competed at the Beijing Olympics in 2008 and made over 140 international appearances for Great Britain and England women’s hockey teams brings with her 18 years’ experience in the wellbeing sector.

Zara Ross, chief executive at Ben, said: “It was extremely important for us to appoint an individual with a strong background in health and wellbeing, but also someone with the right approach to leadership.

“Rachel has the energy and integrity to lead our health and wellbeing team, with a proven track record of not only managing, but also motivating and inspiring those she works with.

“We believe that Rachel is the right person to further develop our health and wellbeing offering to the industry.”

Most recently, Clift held the position of director for health and wellbeing at PeoplePlus UK, a leading public service provider which offers employment support, training and education, independent living, justice and health and wellbeing.

Prior to this, she had been was head of health and wellbeing services at Ingeus UK.

In the early part of her career Clift gained automotive industry experience as the onsite physiotherapist for Peugeot at their Tile Hill plant, as well as working in the NHS as a chartered physiotherapist.

Commenting on her new role with Ben, Clift said: “I’m delighted to have started my new role of health and wellbeing director at Ben and I’m really impressed by the motivation and commitment that my new colleagues have demonstrated.

“I’m committed to playing my part in Ben’s future by helping continue the charity’s success in supporting the people who work, or have worked, in the automotive industry with their health and wellbeing.”