About Me

I'm a seasoned consultant who started in data management as a DBA in 2002. I worked in fundraising and alumni relations at three schools in the UK, latterly as Development Manager at The Haberdashers' Aske's Boys' School. In these roles I became increasingly responsible for fundraising data systems, implementing and managing The Raiser's Edge and two NetCommunity sites. I enjoyed a lot of networking in the industry and attended numerous conferences to expand my skillset and understand the challenges other users were facing. In 2008 I was a speaker at that year's CASE Europe conference, delivering my "lessons learned" on a NetCommunity implementation. Later that year I made the jump to the other side of database management as a consultant.

From 2008 to 2012 I was a consultant at Heller Consulting in Berkeley and Oakland, California. Heller Consulting is known for a wealth of expertise and knowledge, a team of experts who've worked on the frontline of fundraising, and a passion for innovation. During my four years with the firm I created a suite of new services, hosted webinars and videos on NetCommunity and worked with dozens of Raiser's Edge clients all over the country, from small community organisations to major multi-state foundations.

I've been an independent consultant since 2012. I work directly with clients in the UK and US and have worked with colleagues including Beyond Nines (now Nonprofit Garden) and Zeidman Development. Sometimes I collaborate with other consultants on projects needing expertise such as analytics and custom reporting. I often attend training and networking sessions to enhance my knowledge. I'm a member of the AASP and presented on US privacy law at their 2023 Summit in Chicago, and was a panelist on a webinar in June 2024. You'll find presentation slides and other materials on my Resources page. I also sometimes work with for-profit clients and pro bono for very small charities. Find out about some of the clients I have helped and read testimonials from clients and colleagues.

I took a step back from consulting in 2016 to help recover from an RSI I sustained early on in my consulting career. Whilst physically helpful, the break also gave me a fresh perspective and a better idea of the services I wanted to focus on. I'm a strong proponent of a healthy work-life balance and preventing injury - you'll find I'm someone who supports regular breaks, sensible working hours and postural mindfulness.

I have a BA Hons degree from Lancaster University. I did my junior year at Wellesley College. I'm a proud member of the Lancaster alumni network and involved in running alumni events. When not consulting I pursue an interest in gemmology - I hold qualifications from the Gemmological Association of Great Britain and the GIA. I also dance Argentine tango (salon style) and hike in the hills around my home in Dorset. Sometimes I do all three in one weekend : )

Questions? Drop me a line and I'll be delighted to chat and see if I can help you.