After eight years working in the third sector, Di created EmployabilityUK – a volunteer-led education charity. In her previous role, Di was responsible for developing Career Ready’s UK strategy and delivering the national programme. Having built a team of regional managers and taken the programme to all parts of the UK she then went on to become Director of Business Development.

 

Di has more than 25 years of corporate business experience from BT and O2, including delivering BT’s education and community programme in the Midlands. Di has held a number of volunteering roles including 6 years as a Special Constable with West Midlands Police. She has served on many Boards and committees including Greater Birmingham Commonwealth Chamber, Birmingham City University Business School and Success multi-academy trust. Di is also a Parish Councillor.

 

Di’s charity prides itself in providing high quality volunteering opportunities and this was recognised by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 2021 EmployabilityUK was awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

 

Di’s personal commitment to advancing the opportunities for disadvantaged young people was recognised in the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Honours in 2022, when she was awarded an MBE.