Our Board
Jamie Kew–Robson, Head of Assurance UKGI Risk & Governance, Aviva (Chair)
Jamie has spent most of his career in Audit and Risk roles within Financial Services and is currently the Head of Assurance at Aviva, the UK’s leading Insurance, Savings, Retirement, and Investments business.
‘I joined the Board in July 2023 and think York Cares is a fabulous charity with volunteering at its heart, bringing people and businesses together through a variety of employee-volunteering programmes, to make York an even better place to live and work. I’m married with two kids and also care for my mum who has Alzheimer’s Disease. In my spare time I love a bit of DIY and I coach at York Rugby Club.’
Louise Soulsby, UK Communications Lead, Media Relations, Aviva
‘Louise is responsible for the UK media team at Aviva, the UK’s leading Savings, Retirement, Investment and Insurance business, supporting Aviva’s strategy and purpose through communications.
‘I joined the Board in April 2021 as Chair and feel privileged to be involved with such an amazing charity that brings employers, employees and businesses together to make a difference in the city.
Some of my hobbies include reading, running, entertaining friends and family, gardening and walking my Cockapoo.’
Leanne Cooper, Head of Procurement, Nestlé UK & Ireland Ltd
Having joined Nestlé in 2005, Leanne has 20 years of experience in Supply Chain and in May 2025 joined the Nestle UK&I Procurement team, responsible for all sourcing activities relating to Service and Indirect Materials within the market as well as coordinating with colleagues across the globe.
‘Caring for people, planet and communities is fundamental to our ambition at Nestlé and something I am personally passionate about.
I grew up in York and returned in 2022 after quite a number of years living in the South of England. I started getting involved with York Cares in 2023 and in December 2024 joined the board. I have seen first-hand the amazing work that York Cares do, right through from raising aspirations in the future workforce to reducing loneliness and isolation in the community; I feel very privileged to be a part of this amazing charity.’
Suzanne Dickinson, Employer Engagement & Student Opportunities Manager, York St John University
Suzanne has worked at York St John University for 16 years, working within the Careers and Employability Team. She originally came to York St John as a mature student to study a BA in English Literature, having spent 16 years in hospitality and 10 years in banking.
‘As a new member of the board I am thrilled to support such an amazing, having worked with York Cares in my role at York St John for over 5 years. York Cares does incredible work within the community.
I am married with two adult children, one in Newcastle and one in Brighton, who I enjoy visiting when I can.’
Andrew Ferguson, Head of Student Opportunity, Careers and Placements, University of York
Andrew has over 25 years’ experience of developing and implementing initiatives around employability and enterprise. In his role as Head of Student Opportunity, he has particular responsibility for providing students from across all academic disciplines with access to work related experience; including: internships, voluntary roles, access to major employers and entrepreneurial opportunities.
‘Many of the amazing projects run through York Cares have been able to make the most of the skills and enthusiasm of the University of York’s students. Working alongside experienced, professional volunteers from the wider Cares membership has often been a highlight for students. As a Board member I am always conscious of the benefits that Cares allows students to bring to the wider community.
I am the longest serving member of the York Cares Board with over ten years in the role. It is a testament to the great variety and impact of the work that Cares does that the appeal of being on the Board and working with such committed colleagues has never waned for me.’
Joe Micheli, Head of Communities, City of York Council
Joe is the Head of Communities at City of York Council, where he leads the Communities and Prevention Service and the authority’s approach to becoming an asset-based area. With a 30 year career in community development, spanning both voluntary and public sectors, he is passionate about the power of people, relationships and community.
‘I joined the York Cares Board in 2017 and often refer to it as the jewel in York’s crown, an amazing asset that focuses on connecting people, businesses and community through volunteering and social action.
Some of my hobbies include football, rock music, gigs and, of course, family.’
Katie Newman, Financial Controller, Portakabin
Adele Spencer, Head of Procurement & Legal, Benenden Health
Laurence Beckett, Independent Board Member
Laurence has 30+ years of experience of working in HR, primarily at Aviva. He has a passion for Diversity & Inclusion and has been at the forefront of issues such LGBTQ+, Menopause awareness and many others and is our first ‘independent’ board member.
‘I am delighted to rekindle my relationship with York Cares having first worked with them c. 10 years ago as part of my role with Aviva. Working strategically with the City Council and matching local needs with good employers who recognise the benefits of employee volunteering, York Cares makes a significant difference to our City. I am very proud to be involved with York Cares’.
Laurence has lived in York City Centre for nearly 20 years, is married to Annette (who is on the board of Refugee Action York – one of our fellow charities) and has 3 grown up children. Laurence can often be found spoiling a good walk on the golf course.
