We’re delighted to introduce Laura, who has recently joined Manor Hall Academy Trust as our new Head of People. With over two decades of HR experience and a passion for building thriving, people-focused cultures, Laura brings both expertise and enthusiasm to the role.
Life Outside of Work
Laura lives with her fiancé, Tim, and their cockapoo, Marty. When she’s not working, you’ll most likely find her out on dog walks (especially in the crisp Autumn months), shopping, or at the theatre.
Wedding planning is also taking up plenty of her time right now — Laura and Tim are due to get married in November 2025. A particularly special part of the day will be having her brass band “family” play during the ceremony. Laura has played the tenor horn since the age of nine, and she knows it will be an emotional and unforgettable moment when the music fills the room.
Laura’s Career to Date
Laura has spent her entire career — over 22 years — in Human Resources, across the public, commercial, and charity sectors. She says there’s not much she hasn’t seen or heard in that time, but her love for HR has only grown stronger.
Her experience includes:
- Railway and nuclear industries – where she worked closely with Trade Unions and learned the importance of collaboration.
- Commercial sector – at Bentley Motors and Mydentist, where she developed an understanding of how the customer experience connects with the employee experience.
- Public sector – with the NDA, Defra, and Housing, where she learned the power of people-centred solutions to make sure colleagues feel heard, seen, and valued.
Across every role, Laura has focused on listening, engaging, problem-solving, and creating people strategies that add value and make a difference.
Laura’s Vision for Manor Hall Trust
Laura is genuinely excited to be joining Manor Hall — and her vision aligns perfectly with the Trust’s mission and values.
“To say I’m excited is an understatement. Everyone I’ve met so far has embodied the values of the Trust, which tells me we’re really on to something here. I believe in your Vision and Mission, and I can contribute to this by supporting the Trust to build thriving teams and a culture that delivers the strategy through our greatest asset, our people.”
Through the development of a People Strategy that places staff at the centre, Laura aims to:
- Build, maintain, and strengthen environments where everyone feels included, valued, and developed.
- Ensure every colleague has the opportunity to belong, learn, and grow in their own way.
- Support all staff to deliver their very best, every day, in a culture that is both supportive and inclusive.
Looking Ahead
Laura can’t wait to get to know colleagues across the Trust:
“My aim is to spend time with you all, to understand your priorities, and to support you in achieving your goals — whatever they may be.”
We’re excited to have Laura on board and can’t wait to see the positive impact she will make across Manor Hall Academy Trust.
