Meet our Board

As the People and Corporate Services Director for Belfast Harbour Commission since August 2021, I bring over 20 years of experience in leading people and business transformation strategies with executive teams and boards across multiple sectors. I am also currently a board member for Praxis Care and have previously worked in the third sector.

I am thrilled to have been offered a position on the MACS Board, and I am eager to contribute my skills and expertise in any way that I can.

Why MACS?

Recently, I was introduced to the impactful work that MACS does, and I was immediately drawn to their mission.

I am a Chartered Statistician and Fellow of the Royal Statistical Society, with a PhD in Social Sciences from Queen’s University Belfast. My doctoral research was based on the Belfast Youth Development Study, one of the largest longitudinal studies of young people in Northern Ireland, examining risk, resilience and long-term life outcomes. That work grounded my career in a deep understanding of the structural and social factors shaping young people’s lives.

Professionally, I am a Senior Data Scientist working in AI and advanced analytics, specialising in translating complex data into strategic decisions that improve outcomes. Alongside my full-time role, I am the founder of LumenEdge Data Consulting and GrantEdge.ai, a mission-driven technology platform supporting organisations to access funding more effectively. I bring experience across governance, funding strategy, performance measurement, risk and digital transformation.

I have also volunteered as a Grants Officer with Circle of Support for Autism Families, supporting funding applications and strengthening financial sustainability within the voluntary sector. This role deepened my practical understanding of the pressures facing grassroots organisations and the importance of sustainable funding.

I am a parent of three children, including a daughter with complex needs, and have been actively involved in advocacy and policy engagement in Northern Ireland around transitions and post-19 provision.

Why MACS?
MACS’ commitment to young people strongly resonates with both my professional background and personal values. Its trauma-informed ethos and emphasis on youth voice reflect principles central to my research and lived experience. I hope to bring strategic insight, analytical expertise and sector understanding to support MACS in strengthening its impact and sustainability, while keeping young people at the centre of every decision.

My professional background is as a HR Leader with extensive experience across multiple industries and sectors, supporting teams across NI, UK, NI, ROI and EMEA regions.  As well as HR, I also bring project management and supplier management experience.  I am a chartered member of the CIPD, hold a BA Hons in Business Studies and a somewhat eclectic mix of other accreditations.

I am passionate about meaningful connections and my career-long focus has been on bridging the gap between global strategy and local execution.  At the heart of my approach is my commitment is creating inclusive environments where people feel supported and to achieve their full potential.

Why MACS?

I first heard of MACS through a family member who spoke glowingly about the services the organisation provides and was intrigued to learn more.  I have been inspired by the dedication of the MACS team and the extensive services model they deliver.  I am absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity to join the board and to support the organisation in making such positive long-term impacts on the lives of our young people.

I have experience working in the public sector with 12 years in tertiary education and 4 years in health services in a number of senior management posts. Since 2008 I have been Company Director of a SME with responsibility for business development, quality management, marketing, human resource management and tender writing.

I am currently a volunteer with MACS. I am also a Run Director at Queen’s Belfast parkrun. Previously I volunteered on the Committee, and then as Chair of Brainwaves NI. I was privileged to work with likeminded people to provide information and support to those diagnosed and living with a brain tumour; and raise vital funds for research.

Why MACS?

For the last 3 years I have volunteered with MACS as a mentor in Wellbeing Support Services, a role which I find immensely rewarding. 

I have seen first-hand the services delivered by MACS and the positive impact the Charity has on the life of a young person. I am delighted to be able to work with fellow Board members to provide strategic direction and support; and ensure MACS continues to grow and develop its services centred on the young person.

I have been the Chief Executive of a market research company based in Belfast since 2003. Before that I worked with Business in the Community on programmes to help employees invest their skills to benefit third sector organisations.

I have degrees in Statistics & Operational Research, and in Philosophy and Psychology and a strong interest in Behavioural Science. I’m also on the Board of Kabosh Theatre Company.

Why MACS?

I’ve always thought of MACS as such an inspiring organisation. We all need help at various stages in our lives, but what if you don’t have someone to turn to when you need it most? MACS gives young people the help they need to get back up on their own two feet and develop the life skills they need to be proud of themselves. It’s a privilege to play a part in that.

I worked for 29 years in Critical Care in the NHS. I am a Fellow of the Society of Critical Care Technologists and a member of the Institute of Health and Social Care Management. I spent 40 years working in the Scout Movement in volunteer roles ranging from local Groups to International Level.

I specialised in supporting the learning and development of volunteers, including governance support, spending 5 years as National Training Lead, responsible for the development of 7,000 volunteers. I have also carried out consultancy work in this area for the European Region of WOSM. I have had other volunteering roles including chair of a board of governors and vice-chair of Youthnet NI.

Why MACS?

I was attracted to MACS by their ethos of young people first and in particular its work to support young people who have not had a fair deal. Their approach to involving young people in decision making and supporting them to take the lead, not just in MACS but in life, has always been central to my work within Scouting. I hope to use my experience to support the work of MACS.

I am a Senior Consultant at Think People Ltd, specialising in Organisation Development. I have over 20 years experience improving individual and organisational performance and effectiveness with clients in the public, private and third sector. I have an MSc in HR Management and previously worked with Marks & Spencer, PwC and RBS.

Why MACS?

I previously volunteered with Belfast & Lisburn Women’s Aid as I feel strongly about not only providing everyone with a safe home but also with the support needed to make positive change. I have admired the work of MACS from a distance and am pleased to have the opportunity to support young people reach their potential.

I currently work as an Assistant Director for Barnardo’s leading on national Helplines. I have a background in teaching and youth work having previously worked for NSPCC Childline. I hope to bring my experience of strategic leadership, people management, safeguarding and change management to support the board. In my free time I enjoy travelling the UK and further afield as a music examiner with London College of Music.

Why MACS?

Having previously worked with MACS I fully support the organisations vision and mission. I have seen first hand the successes and positive outcomes that have been achieved for and with young people. This is my way of giving back to an organisation that I learnt so much from previously.

I am an Operations Lead within the Tech and Banking Industry; I lead a team of consultants to support the delivery of global tech training for developers. As well as this, I am a qualified Yoga Teacher, passionate about supporting people through a holistic approach and promoting a sense of community. I find great fulfilment in supporting people with their emotional, mental and physical wellbeing.

Why MACS?

Having been one of the young people who has received support from MACS, being housed by them for two years as a teenager in supported accommodation, I wanted to be involved with the organisation and use my voice to help shape the future of the charity.

Having first hand experience means I have a passion for supporting young people who have gone through something similar to me. I wanted to be on the board as I felt that every person no matter background or class identity deserves the same opportunities as others and support is the first step. Organisations such as MACS help provide that support when it seems like all else is lost. I felt it important to be involved in an organisation that shaped my life in such a meaningful way and I’m delighted to look to the future and be involved, creating meaning impacts for young people facing homelessness.

I am currently the CEO of RYA Northern Ireland and have held senior leadership positions in the not for profit sector for the past eight years. My experience has mainly been within sport, taking a lead on EDI and participation programmes, alongside developing and delivering training programmes for volunteers. I also hold two other Board Director positions, with Disability Sport NI and Table Tennis Ireland.

Why MACS?

Having previously been a Trustee at Home Start and worked at youth literacy charity Coram Beanstalk, meant I had a good understanding of the areas of work that MACS are involved in. The way MACS aims to put young people first really stood out for me and the programmes that MACS deliver show what difference can be made when the right support structures are in place. I look forward to seeing how I can support the organisation during my time on the Board.