I provide leadership for Rise and am responsible for the strategic direction and management within the team. I work across a range of systems, networks and partnerships including local authorities, the NHS, education, and the voluntary and community sector. I am a strong advocate for using the power of sport and physical activity to tackle inequalities and improve quality of life, ensuring our partnerships and programmes align with the Rise strategy and support place-based approaches.
Since joining what was then Tyne and Wear Sport in 2008, one of my proudest achievements has been seeing the growth and development of Rise into a strong, values-driven organisation recognised for partnership working and system leadership across the North East. I’m particularly proud of the team we’ve built, and the role Rise plays in bringing partners together to tackle inequalities through physical activity. In particular, I’m proud to see our place-based work create real opportunities for communities and help more people become active which is incredibly rewarding.
After graduating from Northumbia University I spent 10 years working for Newcastle and Sunderland local authorities in a range of sport development and health related roles. I love to travel and have a real passion for the outdoors and angling, including being the secretary of two local fishing clubs.