I am an accredited mediator certified by the world-renowned Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR) and The School of Psychology and Psychotherapy, Regent’s University, London. Both training providers are approved by The Law Society and Civil Mediation Council. In addition I was a dispute resolution solicitor for over 25 years, and have Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) certification through to Master Practitioner level.
Over my career I have gained experience in a variety of sectors and organisations. I started out as a solicitor supporting those who had sustained life-changing spinal and brain injuries to secure compensation before focusing on other civil and commercial litigation.
I have held the appointments of a Board Director of a Local Enterprise Partnership, an external Member of a University Audit Committee, and the Chair of the Child Brain Injury Trust in Northamptonshire. I am a Fellow of the Institute of Directors (IoD), an invitation only position, and currently chair the IoD Leicestershire and Southeast Midlands branch as well as being an external associate of the University of Northampton’s Centre of Sustainable Business Practices. In 2015 I was named the Northamptonshire Law Society’s Solicitor of the Year. The various roles have provided experience in the commercial, local authority, education, legal and charitable sectors.
I enjoy all types of sports and studied Law, Business and Sport (Human Movement) for my degree. During my childhood, much of our family time revolved around sport: hockey, tennis, squash, netball, athletics and football. I qualified as a basketball table official. My Nan was an avid motorsport fan, something I picked up from her, and I have driven around several European F1 circuits. I enjoy going to the theatre, photography, watching contemporary dance, writing poetry and listening to music.
A mediator’s non-judgemental approach is important to me as a Christian as well as being fundamental to the mediation process. I commit to help people in conflict optimise the opportunity mediation offers to resolve their differences and find a way forward.
Mediation skills are effective in supporting Boards and Teams maximise their collective potential. I also enjoy supporting Boards and Teams create efficient and respectful debate and decision-making processes to successfully achieve their strategic objectives. Having undertaken the IoD’s Certificate of Corporate Direction covering corporate strategy, leadership, governance and finance, I am able to support Boards and Teams improve their understanding of each other and in turn their collective performance.
