Helen has over 35 years of experience in the retail industry. She began her extensive career as a Pharmacist after studying and graduating from the University of Sunderland. She has executive-level experience with blue-chip retail businesses, including Boots, Asda, Argos, and Sainsbury's. Most recently, she worked with Marks and Spencer, where she was Retail Director until 2023.
Helen is a passionate advocate of inclusion and diversity and was the Executive Sponsor of the gender and equality network at Marks and Spencer, and the Co-Executive Sponsor of the LGBTQ+ network at Sainsbury's.
Helen is a Non-Executive Director for Hays Travel. She is delighted to be back living in the north-east after spending 25 years away.
Helen joined the Board of Governors in 2025 and is a member of the Audit and Risk Committee, and the People and Remuneration Committee.