In her current role, she has experience of leadership and management in a high pressure environment. She creates processes to ensure targets are met and actively applies continuous improvement strategies to ensure effective operations.
Prior to this, Katie was a teacher. She has taught English literature in a secondary Academy, English as a Foreign Language to refugees in Canterbury and functional skills to young NEETs across Kent. Her broad and varied teaching experience means she is aware of a range of educational issues and policies and is always exploring new alternative ways to improve educational outcomes in Kent.
As a primary school govenor, she is aware of the responsibilities that come with the role and is looking forward to applying herself in a different setting.
Chris has previously worked as HR Director for 2 Trusts, Local Authorities and also in the private sector bringing over 25 years of HR experience to the table.
Currently as project manager working with 4 NHS Trusts in London on Collaboration projects; examples include the formation and running of a shared staffing service and the set up of a recruitment hub.
Chris believes that the biggest investment most employers make is through their people. He has been assisting local employers in Kent to address their people issues and putting in place user friendly policies and practices that enable business success.
Living in Tunbridge Wells, married with 4 daughters and one grandson. A huge rugby fan and a season ticket holder with Northampton Saints he also enjoys swimming.
In his role he has experience in working alongside and assisting a range of companies in developing and growing their businesses. Guiding them along the way dealing with all compliance and regulatory issues, Chris has an eye for detail and for producing timely and effective information, enabling management to make informed decisions as soon as possible. He also has a keen interest in governance and risk management – ensuring suitable steps are taken to ensure risks are managed and strategic plans are put in place wherever possible.
Outside of work Chris is a trustee for a local charity supporting young children and their educational development. He also enjoys playing golf and cricket – whenever the weather and time permits!
Multi award winning entrepreneur who founded the company in 2008, Oliver has a keen interest in Functional Skills and identified the lack of flexible learning opportunities leading to the company being formed.
Today he oversees Runway’s extensive portfolio and continues to innovate, most recently developing the Runway Direct service which offers distance learning across the UK.
Having started our apprenticeship provision in 2012 Sam has grown this area of Runway to now offer a range of frameworks and standards from level 2 to level 5. She is responsible for managing our team of assessors and trainers, employer engagement and ensuring that our provision is of the highest quality. In recognition of our quality standards we received Northbrook College’s Partner of The Year Award in 2015.
With over 20 years’ experience in office and finance operations Thomas is responsible for managing the finances and ensuring the office runs smoothly, dealing with learner and employer payments, managing human resources and supporting the delivery team. Thomas also oversees Runway Direct and coordinates activity across the UK.
Elaine has an extensive background in training and skills, having previously worked as an assessor, IQA and Quality Coordinator. Joining Runway in 2014 she is responsible for the quality of our provision and liaises with Awarding Organisations, funding partners and provider networks. Elaine also oversees our internal programme of CPD and staff development.
An experienced Sales Professional, Clare has been in Education and Training for 7 years and joined Runway in 2016. Clare has a wealth of knowledge on funding streams, sector specific qualifications and compliance training. Responsible for employer training needs analysis, account management and creating bespoke packages, Clare ensures that our portfolio meets the needs of our employer base regardless of size.
A highly experienced Functional Skills tutor, Leanne knows exactly what it takes to boost learners’ confidence and develop their skills, having been on the front line since 2013. With a passion for inclusivity and a desire to help those with additional learning needs, Leanne co-ordinates Runway’s ALN provision and ensures that learners get the support they need in order to achieve their goals.
Having joined Runway following a career in the banking sector Ben has filled the role of tutor, trainer, IQA, schools liaison officer and mentor. Currently responsible for fostering and managing partnerships he is well known to both our local employers and schools.
With over 30 years experience in the care sector, Dawn works with learners to achieve their Residential Childcare and Health and Social Care qualifications. Dawn is also a safeguarding trainer for Kent Safeguarding Children’s Board and Runway’s Safeguarding Officer.
