I joined the Women’s Royal Naval Service in 1986 and was moved into the Royal Navy in 1993 when the WRNs and RN merged. My career continued seeing me undertake all types of operational service (once I became seagoing) with employment both in the UK and overseas – which lasted over 35 years.  During this period as a Writer: leadership, time management, planning, communication, administrative and financial skills were all developed and fine-tuned.

Some key roles I have had in the past that I feel can assist me in the role of trustee are – Chair of a Board of Governors for a small school, the role saw me having to ensure compliance, safeguarding and financial regulations were adhered to alongside supporting the headteacher during an Ofsted inspection.

I was the Events Co-ordinator for the UKAF Women’s Rugby team. This role involved liaising with different organisations ensuring that both players and invited guests got the best experience out of the fixtures. Chair of Gibraltar and RNAS Yeovilton’s SSAFA meetings, this involved understanding how the charities commission worked ensuring compliance alongside fundraising and allocating of funds as required.

I feel all of these roles will stand me in good stead to assist, advise and function efficiently as a trustee working on behalf of all members.  I left the Royal Navy in 2021 and returned back to the Midlands, near the National Memorial Arboretum, here I am still in full-time employment.  Finally, I want to continue the good work the Charity currently does and help it grow its sustainability to enable it to continue successfully, well into the future, ensuring that the current women of the RN feel it is an association that meets their future requirements as well as supporting the older traditions too.