I am a senior executive with over 30 years of experience in operations and business development within social care and health sectors. My career spans leadership roles across Local Authorities, NHS Trusts, and Independent Care Providers, where I have consistently driven strategic growth, operational excellence, and quality improvement. Currently serving as Chief Operating Officer at Care Dorset, I lead a broad portfolio including Operations, People & HR, and Quality & Customer Experience, ensuring high performance and exceptional outcomes for the people we support.
My leadership style is hands on and collaborative, underpinned by a strong ability to coach and develop teams. I have extensive experience in commissioning, financial management, and strategic planning, reflected in significant tendering success and the delivery of large-scale transformation projects. I am passionate about embedding high-quality standards and fostering innovation to meet evolving care needs.
Top achievements
- Appointed Chief Operating Officer at Care Dorset, leading organisational transformation and aligning strategic goals with operational delivery.
- Held Nominated Individual status with CQC and Ofsted across multiple organisations, ensuring compliance and quality excellence.
- Successfully managed budgets up to £45 million and portfolios of over 47 services, delivering growth and improved financial performance.
- Led major service development initiatives, including new models of care for people with complex needs and autism.
- Achieved turnaround of Centra Care and Support from a £1.3m loss to a £500k profit, followed by a projected £1.7m surplus.
What attracted you to the MBA programme at Kent Business School and why?
Kent Business School’s global reputation and Triple Crown accreditation reflect its high academic standards and international credibility. The Leadership modules, consultancy projects, and diverse cohort provide real-world exposure and opportunities to learn from experienced professionals. The school’s strong focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and strategic thinking aligns closely with my aspirations to strengthen organisational leadership and strategic impact.
What are your motivations for undertaking an MBA
I want to build a strong strategic foundation to complement my extensive operational experience. An MBA will deepen my understanding of organisational growth, leadership, finance, and global business dynamics. It will give me the confidence, skills, and exposure needed to take on larger responsibilities effectively and shape long-term strategies for sustainable care models.
What are your future aspirations?
I aspire to continue leading transformational change within health and social care, focusing on integrated care models and innovative service delivery. In the long term, I aim to influence policy and practice at a national level, ensuring that care services remain person-centred, sustainable, and responsive to evolving needs.
What is your best advice for those wanting to progress in business?
Be consistent, stay curious, and keep building strong fundamentals while adapting to change. Success in business comes from discipline, resilience, and the willingness to innovate and add value in every situation.
“Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence.” Sheryl Sandberg (Former COO of Meta)