Katie is a chartered accountant with over 30 years of finance, risk and audit experience, working in both the public and private sector. Since qualifying Katie has worked for multi-national corporations in the construction industry, consumer goods and professional services, working in over 100 countries. Such roles provided broad experience of transformation and project management, finance and risk management, strategic management, governance, and internal and external audit.
Being diagnosed with epilepsy at the age of 23, Katie recognised the concerns disabled persons (and their families) face. As a result, Katie has a stubborn passion for diversity and inclusion, a desire to raise awareness and to drive inner confidence. This has included being Chair of the Disability Employee Support Network for the UK rail industry.
Katie decided to retire early to pursue her desire to support the most vulnerable in our communities. Katie is currently an Associate Non-Executive Director for Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust; Trustee for Ascent Academies’ Trust; Trustee for River Tees Multi Academy Trust; Member of Ethos Academy Trust; Trustee for four UK charities, including Scope, Young Epilepsy, Orpheus Centre and Epilepsy Action; and Finance Director for the Northumberland Cricket Board; Trustee.