About

I am an experienced governance, legal and assurance leader, currently serving as the University Secretary at the University of Derby. In this role, I report to the Vice Chancellor and Chair of the Governing Council, and I sit on the University Executive Board. I lead our Legal, Governance and Assurance Services directorate, ensuring that our governance framework operates with integrity, clarity and efficiency.

As University Secretary, I am responsible for ensuring effective decision making, providing clear, authoritative advice, and supporting members through structured recruitment, induction and development. I also guide complex corporate governance arrangements and provide legal advice. My work includes leading major transactions, supporting strategic partnerships and navigating multifaceted regulatory issues. As Data Protection Officer, I also oversee information governance, data protection and freedom of information compliance.

My earlier career as Senior Legal Counsel at a national retailer, and before that as a corporate solicitor in London, provided extensive experience in commercial, corporate and transactional matters. This background developed my ability to analyse risk, negotiate complex issues and support strategic institutional objectives.