Members (ID 1082)

• Vivian Fairbank
  Vivian Fairbank

  Vivian is a dedicated member of The Mercian Trust, celebrated for her staunch advocacy for gender equality and her wealth of experience in governance. As the current Chair of the Walsall National Trust Association and a diligent Trustee for the Queen Mary’s Schools Foundation, Vivian’s leadership reflects her deep commitment to heritage and educational excellence.

  With a teaching career that spans various educational settings—from junior schools to grammar and comprehensive schools, as well as further education—Vivian’s understanding of the educational landscape is comprehensive. Her experience in these diverse environments has enriched her perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the educational sector.

  Vivian’s contribution to school governance is notable, with 25 years of service, including a significant tenure as Chair of the Investment Committee, where she skilfully oversaw the financial growth and sustainability of educational funds. While she no longer holds the position of Chair of Governors, her legacy of strategic financial management continues to resonate.

  In addition to her role with the National Trust, Vivian serves as the Membership Secretary for the Walsall U3A, a position that underscores her ongoing commitment to lifelong learning and community engagement.

  Her expertise in leadership, business, educational improvement, and finance, combined with a rich history of educational service, ensures that Vivian continues to be an invaluable asset to the Trust.

• Lorraine Johnson
  Lorraine Johnson

  Lorraine Johnson is an esteemed Independent SEN Case Manager and Specialist Lay Member of the First-tier Tribunal, HESC Chamber (SEND), known for her strategic acumen and meticulous attention to detail. Her leadership is characterised by a steadfast commitment to driving improvements and making a tangible, positive impact on people’s lives.

  With a proven track record in management and leadership, Lorraine exemplifies the qualities of a team player who leads by example. Her experience in parent engagement and assessment at Sandwell LA provided a strong foundation for her current endeavours in training and development. Recognised for her ability to influence and network, Lorraine possesses excellent interpersonal skills that make her a solution-focused and capable project manager.

  Lorraine's educational journey at the University of Birmingham has contributed to her depth of knowledge and expertise in the field. As the Chair of the Vine Trust Group since August 2023, Lorraine has played a crucial role in spearheading a community development trust dedicated to economic, environmental, and social regeneration. The Trust's work, underpinned by a Christian ethos, encompasses a wide array of projects across the West Midlands and Wales, including property development, community businesses, and educational initiatives.

• John Punch
  John Punch

  John brings to The Mercian Trust an exceptional depth of expertise in the education sector, especially in the realms of estates, building, and capital project management. As a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and the Owner/Sole-Proprietor of his practice since 1987, his leadership in property and construction is unmatched.

  In his directorial role at Walsall Business Support Ltd and as a long-serving Trustee for the Queen Mary’s Schools Foundation, John's influence extends into strategic development and organisational oversight. John’s distinguished leadership at the Walsall Chamber of Commerce, where he began his directorship in 1982 and was appointed to the role of President in 1991-1992, was a period during which the Chamber grew into one of the most successful in the country.

  His involvement with the Engineering Training Ltd branch, although a smaller facet of the Chamber, further underscores his commitment to fostering professional excellence across varied sectors. John’s prior chairmanship at PTP-Training Ltd saw him steer the oversight of government-funded apprenticeship and traineeship programmes, as well as professional vocational training, showcasing his adeptness in governance and education administration.

  With a significant track record in reviewing the work of the board of trustees, John upholds a steadfast commitment to the founding principles of the Trust. His keen insight into the execution of the board’s vision and the executive’s strategy ensures that The Mercian Trust's objectives are met with fidelity and foresight.

  John’s portfolio of skills, encompassing leadership, finance, business, and human resources, positions him as a pivotal figure within The Mercian Trust, guiding us with experience and wisdom toward a prosperous future.

• Lee Roberts
  Lee Roberts

  Lee offers The Mercian Trust over a two-decades of expertise within the media industry, distinguished by his dynamic leadership in national broadcast management and talent-led entertainment ventures. As the former Chair of the Local Governing Body at Queen Mary’s Grammar School, Lee's governance experience is complemented by a significant track record in the commercial arts, entertainment, and property sectors. As the visionary behind CANVAS, Lee has transformed his commercial acumen into a thriving consultancy that now spans the education and sustainability sectors, renowned for creating and orchestrating live commercial events.

  As Managing Director of Canvas Partnerships Ltd and Commercial Director at Re:Water, he has been at the forefront of launching an innovative sustainable consumer bottled water product housed in 100% recycled aluminium bottles. Lee's commercial acumen is evidenced by securing pivotal supply contracts, notably the historic water deal for the UN at COP26 in Glasgow and the supply terms with the Cabinet Office for the G7 summit. His role in launching Ball Corporation’s aluminium cup in Europe to combat single-use plastics, illustrates his strategic impact across major UK sporting venues. Lee's diverse portfolio showcases a talent for steering high-profile projects to success, including the commercialisation strategy for Battersea Power Station and spearheading the fundraising and development strategy for The Barbican.

  His tenure with Share Radio as Commercial Director underscores his ability to drive revenue growth and innovate in programming strategies. An alumnus of the University of Oxford, where he engaged in leadership roles across various societies and initiatives, Lee's multi-faceted experience makes him a valuable member of The Mercian Trust, poised to contribute to the Trust's strategic development with creativity and insight.

• Wendy Williamson
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  Wendy Williamson

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  Wendy, currently the Deputy Head and Head of EYFS at Lichfield Cathedral School, brings to The Mercian Trust an exceptional fusion of educational, financial and governance expertise. With a PGCE from Staffordshire University and significant experience in primary and higher education, Wendy’s transition from a financial management and governance expert to an educational teacher and leader demonstrates her versatility and ambition, driven by her passion for educational excellence.

  In her first career, within the public sector, Wendy obtained a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Wolverhampton. She made a significant impact as a Senior Leader at Worcester County Council, providing strategic leadership on planning, performance, risk management, and improvement. Her role as Corporate Lead Officer involved steering Chief Officers and Directorate Management Teams through comprehensive inspection regimes and strategic development.

  As a CIPFA Associate and Advisor, she extended her skill set to consultancy, offering service improvement strategies, governance, financial management, and policy advice to public and charitable sectors, emphasising the coaching and development of emergent leaders.

  Wendy's previous positions with Wolverhampton City Council highlight her capabilities in financial performance and service development, further showcasing her communication strengths and staff development initiatives. Wendy's managerial tenure at Lichfield Arts displayed her proficiency in leading teams, organising events, and advocating for the arts.

  With a career embodying clear vision and leadership, Wendy is a valued member whose breadth of experience enhances The Mercian Trust's commitment to fostering robust educational and operational frameworks.

Board of Trustees (ID 1083)

• Kevin Davis DL
  Chair of Trustees
  Kevin Davis DL

  Kevin Davis DL is the visionary Chair and co-founding Trustee at The Mercian Trust, whose prolific career as a social entrepreneur and leader has had a significant impact across the West Midlands. His tenure as CEO and Secretary since 1997 at Vine Trust Group, underscores his enduring commitment to community empowerment and education.

  Kevin’s leadership journey extends through several key roles: from the inception and directorship at Vine Education Trust and the Ladder Apprenticeship Foundation, to his influential contributions as a board member of The Black Country LEP, Oversight Trust, and Walsall Town Board. His strategic insights as a director at The Black Country Consortium, Black Country Housing Group and the West Midlands School of Social Entrepreneurs reflect his ability to navigate and unify diverse sectors.

  As the founding Chair of Walsall Studio School, and the Ladder Alternative provision school, Kevin was instrumental in leading the schools from its application stage through to a successful Ofsted inspection, demonstrating his adeptness in educational improvement. His roles with Coventry and Warwickshire NHS ICB, The Church at Junction 10 and Business in the Community, further illustrate his holistic approach to societal development. Kevin’s spectrum of expertise in leadership, educational excellence, social enterprise and community regeneration, combined with his remarkable talent for consensus-building, making him an exemplary chair.

  His recent appointment as a Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands is a testament to his significant contributions and steadfast dedication to public service. Kevin continues to steer The Mercian Trust with a visionary approach, ensuring that education remains the foundation for community strength and collective success.

• Rebecca Hearsey
  Vice Chair & Chair of People and Culture Committee (PCC)
  Rebecca Hearsey

  Rebecca serves as the Vice Chair of The Mercian Trust, bringing a laser-focused expertise in risk management, legal compliance, and practical solution analysis to the forefront of the Trust's operations.

  As a Legal Director with Irwin Mitchell Solicitors, her experience in the legal field is not just profound—it's pivotal in guiding the Trust through the intricate landscape of educational governance.

  In her role as a Trustee of Queen Mary’s Schools Foundation and former Chair of Governors at Queen Mary’s High School, Rebecca's governance skills shine. Her work ensures that the Trust not only upholds the highest standards of educational excellence but also remains vigilant in safeguarding our students' futures. Rebecca’s role as Vice Chair has been marked by her influential contributions to both finance and education committees, highlighting her versatile and dynamic leadership skills. She now Chairs the People and Culture Committee providing leading the Trust’s focus on professional development, driving educational standards, and wellbeing of our people.

  Her professional journey reflects a commitment to educational improvement and an understanding of the nuanced relationship between legal frameworks and educational policy. Her suite of skills, encompassing leadership, human resources and legal and compliance expertise, makes her an invaluable asset to The Mercian Trust. Rebecca's strategic oversight is crucial as the Trust navigates both current challenges and future opportunities with a steadfast and informed approach.

• Jane Bonner
  Chair of AIMS Committee
  Jane Bonner

  Jane’s commitment to education and governance is exemplified in her role as Chair of the AIMS Committee at The Mercian Trust. With a robust background in the educational sector, her work as a Justice of the Peace adds a significant layer of community service and justice to her professional narrative.

  With a dedicated career spanning over 20 years in secondary teaching, Jane has been at the heart of academic development and pupil success. Her transition to a local authority school improvement role, culminating as Head of School Improvement and Governor support, showcases her expertise in elevating educational standards. Jane’s insightful perspectives also stem from her experience as an inspector for Ofsted, where her evaluations helped shape the quality of education provision.

  Her extensive experience with governance roles in both maintained schools and academies cements her as an expert in educational oversight. Now retired from employment, Jane generously allocates her time to board duties, infusing The Mercian Trust with her skills in leadership, educational improvement, human resources, data handling, and safeguarding.

  Her influence is pivotal in fostering environments where safety and quality of education are paramount, ensuring that all students have access to excellent learning opportunities.

• Revd Beverley Boden
  Revd Beverley Boden

  The Revd Beverley Boden’s career showcases a deep commitment to both the workplace supplies industry and community service.

  After earning a BA Dual Hons in Pure Mathematics and Economics from Sheffield University, she qualified as a Chartered Accountant with Touche Ross in Birmingham, working there until 1992. She then joined TSB Bank as a Statutory, Tax & Financial Accountant, before moving to the family business and becoming a Director of Costs Consortium (now Advantia) in 1994.

  Bev is also a Methodist Minister and spent ten years working part-time in the Walsall Circuit alongside her role at Advantia. She retired from the ministry in 2021. Beyond her professional achievements, Boden has dedicated herself to various charitable endeavours and holds several trustee and committee roles in educational and social welfare organisations, including the Mercian Multi Academy Trust, Linking Lives UK, Ablewell Advice Walsall and Bloxwich Stafford Road Sports Club.

  She is also co-leader of The Bereavement Journey and an accompanist for Student Ministers training at Queens Foundation in Birmingham. In 2020, she was recognised with a BOSS Inspirational Individual award.

• The Rt Hon. Sir Gary Hickinbottom
  The Rt Hon. Sir Gary Hickinbottom

  A former High Court and Court of Appeal Judge, much of Sir Gary’s work now focuses on integrity and transparency in public life in its broadest sense, to which he is dedicated. He recently conducted a Commission of Inquiry into Corruption and Governance in the British Virgin Islands, and chaired a JUSTICE Working Group on Government Outsourcing of Public Services. He sits on several sport and professional disciplinary and grievance panels, chairing the national judicial panels for tennis and wresting.He is particularly involved in safeguarding in sport, being a member of the National Safeguarding Panel and regularly sitting on safeguarding hearings.

  Sir Gary is widely respected for his efforts to increase diversity within the legal system, which reflects his belief in the importance of ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to fulfil their potential irrespective of their characteristics and background. For four years, he was the Senior Liaison Judge for Diversity, when he was specifically responsible for increasing the diversity of the judiciary at all levels. Sir Gary himself was only the second solicitor to be appointed to the Court of Appeal.

  Prior to becoming a judge, following an education in Walsall and then Oxford, Sir Gary was a Partner at CMS Cameron McKenna and also taught at both University College, Oxford and the Polytechnic of Central London (now University of Westminster). As a judge, he held a number of judicial leadership posts including Designated Civil Judge for Wales, Chief Social Security Commissioner and Deputy Senior President of Tribunals when he was the judicial lead responsible for the reform of the tribunal system in the UK. He is currently the President of Welsh Tribunals.

  Sir Gary brings to the Board experience in leadership, human resources, inclusion, legal compliance and the decision-making process. His vision for a judiciary and legal profession reflective of the community they serve chimes with The Mercian Trust's dedication to creating an inclusive educational environment where each student has the opportunity to fulfil their potential.

• Jackie L'Herroux
  Jackie L'Herroux

  Jackie is an experienced Trustee with a strong background in educational governance and information technology. As a former member of the Q3 Multi-Academy Trust and a current local primary school governor, Jackie possesses a comprehensive understanding of the educational sector, which she brings to The Mercian Trust.

  Her knowledge of education data within the sector makes her an invaluable asset, particularly as The Mercian Trust continues to navigate the complexities of the ever-changing educational landscape.

  Now retired from the role of Strategic New Business Manager for SIPS IT, an Education Service Provider, Jackie’s experience spanned across vital business functions with a special focus on data handling and educational technology. Her strategic approach to new business management, coupled with her hands-on experience in the realm of school governance, enables her to provide insights that are both practical and visionary.

  Jackie’s role is pivotal in ensuring that The Mercian Trust continues to integrate Q3 Academies’ knowledge seamlessly, maintaining the Trust’s dedication to excellence in education. Her skill set is not only relevant but essential for the Trust's continuous evolution and its commitment to leveraging technology to enhance learning outcomes.

• Paul Lee
  Chair of Finance & Resource Committee (FRC)
  Paul Lee

  Paul lends his extensive experience in finance and business strategy to The Mercian Trust as the Chair of the Finance and Resources Committee.

  With a rich history of high-level financial management, including roles as CFO at Domestic & General, Deputy CFO at Enodis Plc, and Group Controller at Peek Plc, Paul's career has been characterised by strong financial control and strategic financial planning.

  These positions have also equipped him with an understanding of operations in diverse organisational contexts. Since retiring from paid employment, Paul has devoted his time to governance roles, including his former position as Chair of Governors at Queen Mary’s Grammar School. He is also a Director at the Berkshire Society of Rugby Football Union Referees and a Trustee of Queen Mary’s Schools Foundation.

  Paul's expertise in leadership, finance, business, and strategic leadership is invaluable to The Mercian Trust. His guidance ensures that our financial resources are managed with the utmost integrity, supporting our mission to provide exceptional educational experiences.

• Robert Quayle
  Robert Quayle

  Robert served as a trustee and latterly Chairman of the Q3 MAT which started with Q3 Great Barr, thereafter establishing Q3 Langley and taking over Q3 Tipton before merging with The Mercian Trust in 2022. He had previously served as a Governor of a School in the Independent Sector.

  Although of Isle of Man ancestry, Robert was born in Birmingham and still has strong family connections with the West Midlands; he read law at Cambridge before qualifying as a solicitor latterly being a partner at City firm, Travers Smith. He was appointed as Clerk of Tynwald, the Isle of Man Legislature and served in that capacity for 12 years during a time of significant constitutional change for the country, before taking on a portfolio of other interests including directorships of companies involved in the banking, insurance, shipping, manufacturing media and retail sectors. He also chaired various Governmental bodies and agencies including acting as a Chairman of Employment Tribunals. For 9 years he served as a Commissioner of the Northern Lighthouse Board. He was also active in a number of charitable and third sector organisations.

  As well as having a wide experience of legal and financial issues, Robert has also acquired extensive knowledge of governance having chaired a Commission which investigated and reported on the Scope and Structure of the Isle of Man Government.

  After being involved in Church leadership for 50 years, Robert currently serves as Local Lay Minister for his local church.

• Roland Roberts
  Roland Roberts

  With a formidable repertoire of directorships and governance roles, Roland Roberts brings a wealth of expertise to The Mercian Trust. His directorial tenures at The Cardinal Partnership, Cardinal Capital Ltd, Central Payment Services Ltd, Cadmus Services Ltd, Ambulare Ltd, Revivewraps Ltd, and Freedom Holdings Ltd have endowed him with a robust understanding of corporate management and strategic development.

  In the educational sphere, Roland has demonstrated his leadership acumen as Head of Governance at Victoria Academies Trust, Chair of Cadmus Federation, and Chair at Leighswood School, leaving indelible marks of improvement and success.

  His roles as Vice-Chair at Salisbury School and Birchen Coppice School further illustrate his passion for advancing educational governance. Previously, as Director at Streetly Academy, he played a pivotal role from November 2011 to December 2019, spearheading initiatives that shaped the institution’s growth. His chairmanship of the Walsall Governors Association and experience as a National Leader of Governance (NLG) underscore his exemplary commitment to educational leadership.

  Roland’s array of skills in leadership, educational enhancement, finance, business management, human resources, data handling, and governance equip him to navigate the complexities of educational trust administration. His arrival on the Mercian board injected a strategic and informed perspective, vital for the Trust’s journey towards governance excellence.

• Eddie Stride
  Eddie Stride

  Eddie, a vanguard in transformative community initiatives, brings to The Mercian Trust a wealth of leadership experience from the non-profit sector. As CEO and Director of Transform UK Communities Ltd since November 2016, Eddie has been at the forefront of fostering community development through innovative approaches.

  His vision and commitment to social change were evident during his tenure as CEO of City Gateway from 2003 to 2016, where he successfully launched one of England’s pioneering Alternative Provision Free Schools. This institution was celebrated for its excellence, achieving an 'Outstanding' rating in its inaugural Ofsted inspection, reflecting Eddie’s drive for educational excellence.

  Moreover, Eddie’s involvement with the Ocean Regeneration Trust charity since May 2011 highlights his dedication to societal renewal and sustainable growth. His guidance has been pivotal in steering the organisation towards impactful contributions to community regeneration.

  Eddie’s skill set is comprehensive, encompassing leadership, educational advancement, finance, business acumen, human resources, and data management, all of which are grounded in his deep experience with alternative provision. His executive and non-executive roles in various charities have honed his ability to lead with empathy and strategic insight.

  At The Mercian Trust, Eddie’s role as a trustee is not only to continue his life-long work of empowering individuals and communities but also to ensure that the Trust's schools become beacons of opportunity and innovation.

• Winston Weir
  Chair of Audit and Risk Committee (ARC)
  Winston Weir

  Winston serves as the Audit and Risk Committee Chair at The Mercian Trust. He is a qualified accountant with the ‘Big Four’ pedigree. Winston operates at board level with a number of organisations. He is chair of Audit Committee at Birmingham & Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust.

  He is also the Chair of the Finance Committee for a Wales University Health Board overseeing a £1 billion turnover and a workforce of 11,000. Winston's solid experience with the NHS evidences his capacity to enhance financial resilience and risk management, ensuring preparedness for diverse scenarios, from Brexit to global health challenges.

  His leadership is marked by a commitment to guidance, support, and organisational development. His public sector experience, spanning over a decade as a Finance Director, is characterised by a strategic, results-driven approach that fosters financial sustainability.

  Winston’s expertise is not confined to finance alone; it extends into stakeholder management, service improvement, and the cultivation of world-class finance functions. His previous role at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP and his CPA qualification underlines his deep-rooted expertise in public sector finance.

  Complementing his professional endeavours, Winston is dedicated to mentoring youth and supporting educational initiatives through his charitable work. With over two decades of senior finance experience, Winston’s guidance is invaluable to The Mercian Trust as we endeavour to elevate our governance to new heights.