Our senior leadership team brings together a wealth of experience from across the not-for-profit sector to enable inspirational, diverse young people to tackle educational inequality - and gain life changing opportunities.
With over 25 years of leadership experience across employability, skills, education, and workforce development, Victoria has dedicated her career to creating opportunities that help young people and communities thrive.
She has a strong track record of leading large-scale transformation programmes, securing and managing multi-million-pound contracts, and building strategic partnerships across government, education, and the voluntary sector. Her expertise spans workforce development, social mobility, and systems change, with a consistent focus on improving outcomes for young people.
Prior to joining City Year UK, Victoria served as Strategic Director for Learning, Skills and Employability at Catch22, leading a national portfolio spanning education, employability and social inclusion programmes. She has also held senior leadership roles in national employability and skills organisations, driving innovation, sustainable growth, and high-quality frontline delivery.
Alongside her executive leadership experience, Victoria serves as a Council Member of UK Year of Service, reflecting her long-standing commitment to strengthening opportunities for young people and the wider social impact sector.
As Chief Executive Officer, Victoria will lead City Year UK’s next phase of growth, expanding the organisation’s reach while deepening its impact in schools and ensuring even more young people have the support they need to succeed in education, employment and life.
Who is your hero?
My heroes are the people who choose to make a difference for others, often without recognition. I have always been inspired by those who see potential in people before they see barriers — whether that is a teacher, youth worker, mentor or leader who creates an opportunity for someone else. Throughout my career, I have met many young people who simply needed someone to believe in them, and those who provide that support are the people I admire most.
What is your best career advice?
Be curious, stay true to your values and never underestimate the impact you can have on others. Careers rarely follow a straight line, and some of the biggest opportunities come from moments of uncertainty or change. Take risks, surround yourself with people who challenge and support you, and always leave organisations and people stronger than when you found them.
For the past 20 years, Dean has worked as a Senior Leader in Education, Consultant and Director in some very challenging urban environments. Dean’s previous roles have seen him establish himself as a business leader in education, with responsibility for growth and educational experience. He understands that working to develop a different approach is vital.
Who is your hero?
My dad. A man who always taught me to never stop learning, strive to achieve your goals and always be the person you want to be.
What is the most powerful book you have ever read?
Maya Angelou’s "I know why The Caged Bird Sings".
What is your best career advice?
Kaizen: a Japanese business philosophy, meaning continuous improvement.
For the past nine years, Louisa has worked within the third sector as part of recruitment, sales and partnership teams. She has led regional sales teams across the North West and Yorkshire for NCS The Challenge, and was thrilled to be able to join City Year UK in 2019 as the Schools Partnership and Volunteer Recruitment Manager, leading both teams nationally.
Who is your hero?
A hard one! I don’t think I have one particular hero but am inspired by lots of different people I have in my life: friends, family, colleagues past and present...
What is the most powerful book you have ever read?
"A Thousand Splendid Suns" by Khaled Hosseini.
What is your best career advice?
Don’t over-complicate things, keep it simple and get the basics right first.
Claire brings over 13 years’ experience leading high value fundraising teams, and diversifying income to make charities more sustainable. She has worked across corporate partnerships, trusts and foundations, philanthropy and events - creating impactful partnerships for education, employment and healthcare charities. Outside of work, Claire enjoys spending time with her family, circuit training, running and reading a good book.
Who is your hero?
My hero is Malala Yousafzai because of the extraordinary courage she showed in standing up for girl’s right to education, and her unwavering determination to continue fighting for change despite the risks.
What is the most powerful book you have ever read?
"American Dirt" by Jeanine Cummins. It follows a mum and her son as they flee their home in Mexico due to cartel violence, and really powerfully shows the strength and resilience people can summon in the face of unthinkable hardship.
What is your best career advice?
I would give this advice…. say ‘yes’ to opportunities and things that take you outside of your comfort zone, because that’s often when you learn the most.
