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 Sainsburys. Most recently, she worked with Marks and Spencer, where she was Retail Director until September 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 Sainsburys.
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.