Meet The Executive Team
Meet our Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Overcoming disadvantages and inequity, drive me every time
Matt has worked in education for over 25 years and has been our CEO since the inception of the Trust. Matt attributes his career and approach to his parents’ relentless work ethic which fuelled his unwavering belief that one’s circumstances don’t have to define their future.
Matt has always found purpose in hard work and helping others. From having a range of jobs including two newspaper rounds, sign painting, working in McDonald’s, being a pipe fitter’s mate and springboard diving coach, Matt’s early experiences gave him a broad view of the world and a deep understanding of the value of hard work and the life-changing potential of education.
As he progressed through the teaching profession, Matt became increasingly frustrated with the limitations and red tape of the traditional school system. He saw how bureaucracy and lack of innovation often failed the very students it was meant to serve. In 2016, Matt set out to change that by founding our multi-academy trust with a single, powerful mission: to break down barriers and unlock the potential in every child, no matter their background.
What started as a trust with just three schools quickly flourished. Through Matt’s leadership and the relentless dedication of his team, schools that had once struggled were transformed into places where students thrived. Matt’s authenticity, passion, and hands-on approach created a culture where children felt seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.
Today, our trust has expanded to 18 schools, each one a living example of what’s possible when we challenge the status quo. We’ve moved away from the rigid structures of traditional education, embracing instead a spirit of collaboration, authenticity, and a deep commitment to excellence. At the core of everything we do is a simple approach to creating equity and improving life chances – the work we do is continually challenged in terms of its Ambiguity, Barriers and Complexity. As a results of this simple methodology, schools are able to remain unique in their context but also resilient institutions that withstand all the challenges that the world of education throws at it. Together, we roll up our sleeves, push through challenges, and create spaces where potential is unlocked and futures are rewritten.
As our journey continues, we invite you to join us. To be part of something special, where bureaucracy makes way for bold action and where every effort is focused on transforming the lives of the children we serve. The story of our CEO is the story of our Trust: where a range of opportunities are available, people can live happy, fulfilled lives and achieve excellence.
Meet our Chief Finance Officer (CFO)
I think you get the best out of people by just treating them like grown-ups
Known for his candid yet compassionate demeanour—and a knack for injecting humour into even the most complex financial discussions—Gary is more than just the numbers guy at Learners’ Trust. His approachable leadership style has earned the admiration of his finance team and colleagues alike, creating an environment where hard work and camaraderie go hand in hand.
With nearly 20 years of experience as a chartered accountant across industries like motor dealerships and NHS healthcare, Gary brought a wealth of expertise to his role as Chief Financial Officer when he joined Learners Trust in December 2021. Prior to this, he had briefly served on the Trust’s board of trustees, offering critical financial insights at a time when the organisation faced significant challenges.
Since his appointment Gary has led a remarkable transformation. By driving efficiencies, standardising budgets, staffing structures and procurement processes, he has significantly increased stability across the Trust —all without resorting to cuts in jobs or services.
Gary’s leadership is marked by his ability to balance transparency with empathy. He fosters a supportive team culture, regularly checking in with staff and addressing concerns with honesty and care. His “corporate days,” designed to bring teams together for in-person collaboration, are just one example of his commitment to building strong connections.
Under Gary’s stewardship, the Trust is not only financially stable but it also has a sustainable foundation for future growth. His ability to combine financial rigour with a deeply human touch has ensured that resources are maximised for the benefit of schools and students alike.
Gary’s journey at Learners’ Trust exemplifies the impact of a finance leader who is as personable as he is strategic.
Meet our Chief Operating Officer (COO)
I think it’s just trying to make things better all the time
Fran’s personality lights up every room she enters. Known for her cheerful demeanour and warm, engaging style, she’s a natural conversationalist who effortlessly connects with people. Her bubbly nature, however, is matched by a sharp mind and an unwavering commitment to excellence—qualities that have propelled her journey from school administrator to Chief Operations Officer at Learners Trust.
Fran’s career began at High Greave Junior School, where her organisational prowess and positive attitude caught the attention of Matt, the Trust’s founder. Determined to grow her skills, she earned a school business manager qualification and joined Learners’ Trust as a school business administrator when it was just three schools strong. Her role evolved alongside the Trust, culminating in her appointment as COO, where she now oversees its dynamic operations.
With a solid foundation in school administration and compliance, Fran has been instrumental in driving key initiatives. She led the successful transition of school catering to contract, enhancing meal quality and operational efficiency. Her modernisation of the Trust’s management systems, migrating to cloud-based platforms, streamlined workflows and improved accessibility for staff.
Fran also developed a robust strategy for managing school buildings, ensuring safe, well-maintained facilities. As Data Protection Officer, she is trained to advocate for the Trust safeguarding its reputation.
What sets Fran apart is her leadership style—firm yet empathetic, supportive yet focused. She leads a dedicated team, fostering a culture of collaboration and purpose. As a mother, she brings an authentic understanding of the needs and expectations of parents and pupils, making her a relatable and trusted leader.
Fran’s vibrant personality and forward-thinking leadership embody Learners’ Trust’s mission to ensure ‘equity of opportunity for all’. Her journey is an inspiring testament to the power of positivity, adaptability, and a relentless drive to make a difference.
