Tell us what attracted you to join the NWF?
I was offered a chance to join the then UKIB as of part of John Flint’s first Executive Committee and to help set up a legal and governance function pretty much from scratch. Having come from UK Export Finance that had over 100 years of history, this was a truly unique opportunity to create something new.
What does your role involve?
I am foremost a member of the Executive team at NWF and play a key role in helping to shape strategy and direction and meet the challenges of the day alongside my other Exco members. At a functional level I oversee the running of Board and Exco level committees, NWF’s alignment with its governance obligations, provision of real-time advice on its deals and public law obligations. At a stakeholder level, I work with my counterparts across government and the private sector to ensure efficient collaboration.
What is the NWF like to work for?
Whenever I talk to a private sector client, a senior government stakeholder or a potential new recruit around the office they always comment on the “energy” they feel around the office and the people we speak to. Working for NWF is working for a truly “energised” and “energising” organisation.
What were you doing before you joined the Fund, and how has your experience helped with the role you are now doing?
Having played a key role in helping UK Export Finance transition away from fossil fuel support as Director of Strategy, Policy and Climate Change I wanted to continue my journey of helping to tackle climate change by helping to build net zero infrastructure in the UK. Also, experience as General Counsel and Director of Financial Crime at UKEF, running a deal-focussed expert legal and financial crime function translates directly to my role here.
What are your highlights/ proudest achievements since joining the NWF?
My proudest personal achievement was being recognised as a Hot 100 in the Lawyer in 2024, this was partly in recognition of the organisation building and function-building role I was performing in a financial services business head quartered in the regions! Mostly, I am proud of the excellent team that I have brought together – they are technically brilliant, future leaders in their profession, but truly humble and really fun to be around.
What are you looking forward to next at the NWF?
I am looking forward to being part of the ambitious and accelerated national role that the NWF will play and the impact that will come with it.
What would you say to anyone thinking of applying for a role here?
I would say, if you want to be part of the growth success story of the UK, this is the place to be!