Appointed 27th January 2023

• Impact and Training Manager at education charity Governors for Schools
• Previously Education Adviser specialising in assessment at Essex County Council
• Former Key Stage 1 moderator for Essex County Council
• PGSE in Primary Education
• Former primary school teacher
• BA History
• Volunteer with local family support organisation A Better Start Southend
• Former Chair of the YourFamily Partnership Group

Appointed 17th July 2025

• Finance professional in the Civil Service with experience of working in various finance roles within government departments
• Former private sector accountant and auditor with experience of working with academy schools
• Qualified with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW)
• Coaching assistant for a junior athletics academy and volunteer for a Beavers group in the Southend area

Appointed 24th March 2023

• Financial Crime Consultant at PA Consulting, with prior experience at Deloitte supporting major financial            institutions on risk, compliance and large-scale change and transformation projects.
• Holds a BSc in Economics from the University of Bath and is currently studying towards the ICA Level 3 AML      Diploma. 
• Brings strong skills in finance, data analysis, project management and stakeholder engagement, with a proven ability to challenge processes constructively and work with senior leaders. 
• Serves on SECAT’s Audit, Risk & Resources Committee, contributing professional expertise in risk, governance and financial oversight. 
• Passionate about equal access to high-quality education, drawing on personal experience to support narrowing attainment gaps and improving outcomes for children and young people.

Appointed 2nd October 2023

• Relationship Manager with over 15 years’ experience in financial services, specialising in provider oversight, cost control, and RFP/RFQ procurement processes. 
• Holds an LLB Law degree from the University of Hertfordshire and is a Member of the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investments, bringing strong legal and contractual expertise to the Board. 
• Brings extensive experience in finance, safeguarding of assets, risk and compliance, with a professional background focused on holding partners to account and ensuring robust governance arrangements. 
• Skilled in strategic leadership, data analysis and technology systems, with practical experience reviewing contracts and managing outsourced providers to deliver value and strong outcomes. 
• Motivated by being a parent and supporting his local community, Chris is passionate about ensuring strong oversight and strategic direction so that children receive the best possible education and opportunities.

Appointed 26th April 2024

• Client Strategy Director, with extensive experience leading strategy, business development and change management across EMEA, working closely with senior stakeholders to deliver organisational goals.
• Holds an MA in History of Art and a BA in Ancient World Studies from UCL, bringing strong analytical thinking  alongside a creative and strategic approach.
• Brings significant expertise in strategic leadership, data analysis, project and team management, including  hiring, mentoring and performance development.
• Experienced in managing complex change, aligning people and processes, and using data to inform decision-making, alongside skills in marketing, fundraising and community engagement.
• Passionate about giving back to the Southend community and supporting future generations, Harriet is motivated by her own positive educational experiences and a desire to help ensure all pupils have access to high-quality education.

Appointed 14th February 2025

Appointed 14th February 2025

• Owner of HR company and Chartered Fellow of the CIPD, with over 20 years’ experience in HR leadership and employment law. Holds three Master’s degrees including Employment Law, International HR Management and International Relations.
• Brings significant board-level experience from roles with Artionis Ltd, Area Camden and NHS England, contributing to HR strategy, organisational change and safeguarding frameworks.
• Extensive expertise in safeguarding, risk and compliance, including work with Ofsted Reg 44, CQC, Local Authorities and LADO processes, alongside legal compliance and audit activity.
• Highly skilled in strategic leadership, data analysis and financial oversight, supporting multi-year budgeting, due diligence, and evidence-based decision making.
• Passionate about supporting children and local communities, Andy serves as Chair of Audit, Risk & Resources  Committee, providing strong oversight of resources, governance and safeguarding across the Trust.

Appointed 17th March 2025

• Former Vice Principal with almost 20 years’ experience in school leadership across the UK and internationally, including roles as Headteacher, Executive Headteacher and Business Director. Holds a Master’s in Education, NPQH and is currently completing NPQEL.
• Former leader of an all-through school (EYFS to sixth form) within GEMS Education in Dubai, with responsibility for educational outcomes, inclusion and wellbeing, and experience teaching every year group within the UK curriculum.
• Brings extensive expertise in safeguarding (current DSL), SEND, data analysis and school improvement, alongside experience as a British Schools Overseas (BSO) Inspector.
• Highly experienced in strategic leadership, finance and HR, including budget planning, value for money, safer recruitment, staff development and performance management.
• Passionate about improving outcomes for children and communities, Jacqueline contributes strong educational insight and governance experience to support the Trust’s strategic direction and pupil success.

William Lloyd – Appointed 26th November 2024, Resigned 30th January 2025

Dominic Fenton – Appointed 18th July 2022, Resigned 14th July 2025

Riz Malik – Appointed 20th September 2020, Resigned 23rd July 2025

Robin Knight – Appointed 1st September 2016, Resigned 20th October 2025