Turning a lifetime of insight into local impact

Charity: Big C

Insight can come from unexpected places, shaped by experience, challenge and the people we learn from along the way. For me, that’s meant public service, running a business, elected office and working alongside people who care deeply about others.

My career began as a junior within local government, where I first understood the value of public service and community impact. As responsibilities grew, I found myself leading a team of accountants, despite not being qualified yet myself.

Determined to address that gap, I studied while working full-time and balancing family life to qualify as an accountant. That experience gave me far more than technical knowledge; it instilled humility and perseverance, as maths had never been my strongest subject.

My role today draws on everything I’ve learned, from strategic planning and financial stewardship to partnership working and community impact. Each chapter of my career has contributed something different.

Running my own business developed my resilience and resourcefulness, while accountancy training provided a strong foundation in strategic planning and problem-solving. Board and governance roles reinforced the importance of accountability and good decision-making, while serving as a trustee provided insight into effective charitable leadership and responsibilities that come with stewarding an organisation’s future.

Elected office, Chair of Broadland District Council and later, Norfolk County Council deepened my understanding of community need, stakeholder engagement and the importance of partnership working.

And, it was personal tragedy that changed my perspective on life and deepened my sense of purpose.

All these things combined are why leading Big C feels a natural culmination of my career, combining my professional experience with a cause that matters deeply to me.

Stronger together

Cancer affects every community and touches the lives of so many families across Norfolk. Big C provides vital support, information and care for people when they need it most. It’s an honour to carry forward the vision of our co-founders, the late David Moar MBE and Clive Bamford, whose own cancer journeys and determination shaped a charity that continues to change lives. I am equally privileged to lead a talented team whose expertise makes a meaningful difference every day.

If my career has taught me one lesson above all, it’s that we achieve so much more when we work together. Real and lasting impact happens when people unite around a shared purpose.

As Norfolk’s business community continues to shape the future of our region, I would encourage leaders to use their skills, influence and networks to support the causes that matter to them.

Whether through partnerships, volunteering, fundraising or even small actions can create meaningful change. And together, we can achieve far more than any of us could alone.