Lorraine Flynn 

Member

With over 23 years of experience in finance and an ACCA qualification, I have honed my skills in financial management, accounting, and strategic planning within the housing association sector. My career has been centred on ensuring the financial sustainability of organisations that provide essential housing services, balancing fiscal responsibility with the mission to support communities and improve lives.

Throughout my career, I have successfully led financial teams, managed budgeting, forecasting, and reporting processes, and ensured compliance with regulatory requirements specific to the housing sector. I have a strong track record of optimising financial operations, enhancing transparency, and driving efficiencies that support both organisational goals and community needs.

My experience working with housing associations has equipped me with the ability to navigate complex funding environments, manage risk, and provide sound financial advice that contributes to long-term success. I excel in communicating financial insights to both finance professionals and non-finance stakeholders, fostering collaboration and informed decision-making.

As an experienced finance professional with a deep understanding of the housing association landscape, I am eager to leverage my expertise and ACCA qualification to continue contributing to organisations that are dedicated to delivering affordable housing solutions and making a positive impact on communities.

Sally Cheshire 

Member

A highly motivated and driven individual with over 15 years of experience in fast-paced education environments. Recognised as an influential leader who can direct large teams and manage stakeholder expectations. A strong ability to deliver complex and time-sensitive projects by identifying key strategies, developing and coordinating different multi-agency teams, and ensuring outcomes are met and achieved alongside collating, analysing, and presenting qualitative and quantitative data.

Leading both colleagues and young people from the front, driving exceptional results through encouraging and supporting the ongoing development of these individuals using a range of management techniques, and instilling a drive to achieve and succeed by opening doors and showcasing opportunities. An excellent ability to manage conflict in situations. Proficient in creating content for delivery both face-to-face and virtually. 

Eddie Austin

Member

Eddie has extensive experience and knowledge of the UK and International staffing sector. Founding Chair of APSCo (Association of Professional Staffing Companies) Education Sector 2013-15. Experienced advisor on delivering public and private sector business integration and operation.
He combines expert knowledge of the resourcing/recruitment and educational software/technology solutions sector with strong leadership, commercial skills and knowledge of fast-moving and evolving/emerging markets to ensure first-class business stewardship.

John Lomas

Member

John has been in education for over 40 years. He spent most of those years in Special Education as a teacher, deputy headteacher and Headteacher at a residential/ day special school in Kent.
He was Senior Adviser for SEN and Head of SEN Support Services in Trafford Council for 7 years until 2011.
He is now an SEN Consultant (self-employed) 2011-date. Roles have included Acting Head of SEN (Rochdale) and Acting SEN Assessment Manager (Kirklees). He was also the LA representative at SEN Tribunals from 2001-2014.

Deborah Rogers

Member

Deborah has worked in education for 30 years. She has spent all of those years in special education working in a range of settings across Greater Manchester. Deborah roles have included middle leadership roles at a SEN Secondary in Bury, Assistant Headteacher at a SEN Primary in Bolton and a Head Teacher role for 11 years at a SEN Primary in Rochdale. 

Deborah has gained a Masters in Education MEd (Special Education Needs) from Manchester University. She has been a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for 11 years.

Deborah enjoys a wider interest in Music and communication linked to Teaching roles and has fulfilled the role of Foundation Governor at RC Primary School.

Having devoted her working life to those with SEND, Deborah continues to be committed and focused on supporting children, young people and professionals in this area.

Deborah brings great depth, experience and understanding of skills relating to the leadership of educators and the education of children and young people with SEND.