David Moran joins Venturers Trust as Interim CEO with effect from October 2023. He has a varied and impressive career over the past 30 years within Education. He graduated with a science degree and teaching qualification from York and moved into a teaching career in London before taking up leadership roles both in the UK and overseas.
His career over the past 10 years has included being CEO of E-ACT (2013-2019), President of US operations at Tribal Group PLC (2011-2013) and in London as the Director of Operations (2010-2011). Prior to that David was working with Specialist Schools & Academies Trust (2006-2010) as Operational Director.
Since 2019, he has led his own consultancy business focusing on leadership, governance, strategic support and turnaround services. In 2022, with his son, he published StepStack, a mobile app that motivates and incentivises teens to get more active.
With a record of accomplishment that spans Education, charities and commercial organisations we are excited to welcome David to Venturers Trust.
Chair of Trustees
Gail Bragg
As Chair of Trustees, Gail provides leadership and direction for the operation and performance of the Trust.
Her background in the private sector includes specialising in operations, change management and financial services. She also brings to the role a considerable amount of experience in the education sector.
Gail has a clear vision for the future of Venturers Trust. She is determined to ensure that the Trust provides every school with the support to offer all children an excellent education and access to life changing opportunities, and that all staff feel valued and equipped to carry out their roles to the highest standard.
Deputy CEO
Trystan Williams
Executive Lead for the Trust and Principal for Venturers' Academy.
Director of Operations
Tara Phillis
After graduation, Tara's career started in promotion and executive search before moving into regional HR roles. Tara was Head of HR at a large multi academy trust in the south west for ten years before
joining Venturers Trust to lead the central HR team. Tara holds an MSc in HR Management and is a Chartered MCIPD.
Director of Finance
Stephanie Williams
Stephanie leads the Finance team in Venturers Trust. Having graduated from the University of Leicester in Chemistry and German Stephanie then qualified as a Chartered Management Accountant. She has worked as a management accountant in a range of organisations from the National Blood Service to being Head of Finance for AXA Technology Services in Japan and then Head of Finance at AXA Technology Services UK.
Director for ICT & Innovation
Paul Farrell
Director of Education Secondary
Brendan Hesketh
Director of Education Primary
Shelley Flanagan
Director of Education Primary & Special
Stuart Woodburn
Project Manager Health & Safety
Richard Clayton
Project Manager
Shaun Cockrell
Head of Facilities Management
Gary Tilzey
Executive Assistant
Alison Febry
Alison started her career in professional administration and secretarial services in the banking industry. She moved to work within the education sector in 1998 developing her knowledge and skills in administration management. She was PA to the Executive Principal of Merchants' Academy Trust and is now Executive Assistant to the Chief Executive Officer of Venturers Trust. Alison has been a participant in the NCTL Clerks' Development Programme to further support her role in Governance at Venturers Trust.