- What inspired you to become a trustee of the Veterans’ Foundation, and what stood out to you about its work?
I was first introduced to the Veterans' Foundation when I met a fundraiser at Watford Gap Services and became aware of the breadth of support they provide for veterans. When I received an invitation to consider a trustee role, I was flattered and felt the timing was perfect. The scale and diversity of the causes they support really stands out, as well as the energy, enthusiasm and vision of the team. I saw a real opportunity to contribute meaningfully and give back to the veteran through a different organisation than my existing trusteeship with the Army Families Federation. - Can you tell us a little about your background and career to date?
I served as a Captain in the Royal Artillery, with tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, before leaving the Army on my 30th birthday. I then pursued journalism, working for British Forces Broadcasting, Sky News, and ITV News, reporting from conflict zones and covering a broad range of stories. Later, I moved into corporate communications, holding roles at Network Rail, Barclays, HSBC, and AECOM, before joining Rolls-Royce two years ago to lead external communications for Civil Aerospace. My career has included military service, journalism, and corporate leadership, which gives me a unique perspective on communication and influence. - What are you most looking forward to in your role as a trustee?
I’m looking forward to making an impact and contributing to the Veterans’ Foundation’s next chapter. I enjoy influencing outcomes, bringing people together, and challenging ideas constructively. I hope to help the organisation grow in confidence, reach more people, and deliver meaningful support for veterans and their families. - What do you hope the Veterans' Foundation will achieve over the next few years?
I hope to see the Foundation stand out as an innovative leader in veteran support. I’d like it to be widely recognised for its impact, helping veterans realise their potential, supporting bereaved families, and normalising access to mental health resources. - What skills or experience do you feel you bring to the Board?
I bring a combination of lived military experience and professional expertise in communications and influence. I understand the veteran experience but also bring a critical perspective, able to challenge and question how things are done. My experience leading communications for complex organisations allows me to help shape strategy, influence stakeholders, and amplify impact. - What do you enjoy doing in your spare time when you’re not working?
I enjoy spending time with my wife and seven-year-old son in Oxfordshire, cycling, and supporting my son in his many sports. - What does supporting veterans personally mean to you?
It’s deeply personal. I’ve seen the challenges of transition, the importance of mental health support, and the impact on bereaved families. Helping veterans realise their potential is very important to me. - One thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
People might be surprised that my wife and I have shared extraordinary experiences together, from reporting in conflict zones in Afghanistan to making documentaries in Africa. We’ve also faced some unusual personal challenges, from being chased by a lion in Kenya to being shot at and being present when there was the Ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone, experiences that have shaped our perspective on life and resilience.
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