Mark Astarita
The pearly kings and queens – fantastic fundraising
by Mark Astarita
Mark Astarita tells the charming story of the pearly kings and queens. With their colourful feathered hats and hand-sewn pearl button suits, the ‘pearlies’ are an instantly recognisable London institution dating back 150 years.
Read moreAbout the author
Mark Astarita OBE (he/him) was a Principal Partner at AAW Group and a former Chair of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising (CIOF). Widely known in the UK and internationally, Mark was involved in a variety of charities and public bodies.
During his 14 years as Director of Fundraising at British Red Cross, he trebled the organisation’s income. Before he joined the Red Cross, Mark held posts as the deputy chief executive and director of fundraising at the National Deaf Children’s Society, including a period of time as acting chief executive. Throughout Mark‘s career he led teams raising over £1.5 billion for humanitarian causes.
He was regularly voted the most influential fundraiser in the UK, and was regarded as an inspiring non-profit leader and trustee. In 2015 Mark was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition of his services to fundraising. Mark passed away in 2024, aged 64.
