Coming from a background in Law and Criminology, I have held strategic management and leadership roles in the third and public sectors for over 35 years.

I am passionate about justice, and working to create an inclusive society, with equality of opportunity for everyone, and support for those who need it most, to live their best lives possible.

I started my career in community planning in local government and research in Scottish Government, before joining the third sector as a Senior Manager with community justice charity, Sacro, and then becoming Chief Executive of Apex Scotland. I was the first National Convener of Children’s Hearings Scotland, Chief Executive of Volunteer Glasgow and latterly Director of Community Empowerment and Equalities with Glasgow City Council. Currently, I am Head of Development with Deaf Action and am learning British Sign language (BSL).

I have been privileged in my career to influence policy and change, not least by contributing to the work of The Sentencing Commission for Scotland, The Law Society of Scotland Criminal Law Committee and the Equality and Human Rights Commission Scotland Committee.

I am a curious thought-leader and have learned a lot over the years through my voluntary experiences as a Children’s Panel member and a Board member of Venture Trust Scotland, Families Outside and Right There. Currently, I am a Board member of the Scottish Book Trust and Causeway - the Ireland/Scotland Business Exchange.

In my life outside work, I enjoy arts, culture and playing about with my harp. I like to knit and cook. I love books and I am passionate about the transformative power of reading for children and families. I like to keep as fit and healthy as I can by swimming, going to the gym and playing tennis and I am also a Volunteer Tennis Activator for Free Parks Tennis.