Third Sector Operations Specialist: Driving Impact Through Strategy, Systems, and Technology

For over two decades, I've been dedicated to making a tangible difference within the third sector. My journey has taken me from hands-on community projects in challenging environments to leading significant operational transformations at regional charities. This journey has equipped me with a robust ability to modernise organisations, streamline processes, and maximise impact. I'm passionate about helping third sector organisations thrive, and I bring a results-driven approach coupled with a deep understanding of the sector's unique challenges.

In my work, I focus on delivering sustainable results. For example, at Active Community Enterprise CIC, where I served as Director, I led a successful rebrand and operational overhaul that wasn't just about surface changes. It was about fundamentally improving how the organisation functioned, which led to a real improvement in the services we provided to adults with additional needs across the Liverpool City Region and a significant increase in efficiency. I also successfully guided ACE through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. This involved managing an annual budget of approximately £750,000 and ensuring financial sustainability. I'm proud to have renegotiated contracts to secure a 40% increase in income in 2024 compared to when I started in 2018, with ACE achieving a surplus of £62,000 in my final year.

My experience includes leading digital transformations and operational overhauls at organisations. At ACE, I spearheaded the digital transformation, including the development of in-house apps for staff, which streamlined processes and improved communication. I'm a technically proficient leader with a strong track record in implementing technology to enhance service delivery. I recently founded nfpSpark, a project drawing on my own experience of the huge digital gap faced by the third sector, through which not-for-profit organisations harness low/no-code tools to build affordable custom tech to streamline operations and demonstrate impact.

I've also got a lot of experience in managing teams and developing a positive working environment. I believe in empowering staff to do their roles independently and fostering a supportive culture.

My time as Director of Operations at Mite further solidified my operational management skills. There, I was responsible for leading staff, volunteers, and contractors, and managing relationships with stakeholders. I have a proven track record of improving financial performance. At Mite, for instance, I reduced operating costs by 18% through restructuring and renegotiated contracts. I also developed an in-house reporting system that helped us to increase income by 14%.

I am currently available for consultancy, fractional COO roles, and non-executive director positions. Whether it's developing robust strategies, implementing efficient systems, or leveraging technology to enhance service delivery, I bring a results-driven approach and a deep understanding of the sector's unique challenges. If you're seeking a dedicated and experienced professional to help your organisation achieve its full potential, I'd love to connect.

You can contact me via Linkedin, WhatsApp or via my Get In Touch page.