It’s a huge honour to step into the role of CEO at Rebuild East Midlands. For me, this isn’t just a new chapter in my career – it feels deeply personal. As someone who grew up in an environment of domestic violence and child abuse and having experienced labour exploitation and homelessness as a teenager. It was Derby that gave me a home when I didn’t have one, and it was here that I began to rebuild my life. To now lead an organisation rooted in this city, with a mission that resonates so closely with my own journey, feels incredibly powerful.
What makes Rebuild so special is the people. Lesley, who has led the organisation with such passion and vision, leaves behind an incredible legacy. The team she built are extraordinary – compassionate, skilled, and utterly committed to standing alongside survivors. Their work is changing lives every single day, and I feel lucky to join them in it.
Rebuild’s values are not just words on a page – they are lived out in the way our staff and volunteers show up for survivors, promoting their resilience and agency, offering hope, safety, and opportunity. I’ve seen how this issue can be approached across policing, charities, and the corporate sector, but I have never known a team like this one. Their creativity, resilience, and determination inspire me daily.
As I step into this role, my focus is on building on the strong foundations Lesley and the team have laid, amplifying their impact, and working with our partners and supporters to create even more opportunities for survivors to rebuild their lives and achieve their preferred futures. Together, we can continue to grow an organisation that not only responds to exploitation, but actively creates a future where thriving is possible for everyone.
We can’t do this alone – collaboration is key – if you want to work with us or offer your support (however that looks) please do get in touch.
