Lesley is a highly experienced executive leader with a proven track record in both the public and private sectors, spanning consultancy, government, infrastructure, and IT. She served in the UK Cabinet Office for a decade (2008-2018), notably as its first Chief Operating Officer and as the founder of the cross-government Counter Fraud, Error, and Debt Taskforce, delivering over £7bn in government savings.
Recognized for her leadership, strategic thinking, and ability to drive change, Lesley was praised by Sir John Manzoni (former CEO of the Civil Service) for her resilience, independent judgment, and courage to speak ‘truth to power.’
In the private sector, she has held senior roles as Chief Information Officer for WSP (EMEA) and Group IS Director at Atkins, leading commercial efficiencies through clear strategy, governance, and innovation. A skilled change leader with deep stakeholder engagement expertise, she fosters collaboration while maintaining high integrity and ethical standards.
Lesley also has a strong commitment to education, actively contributing to school governance and leadership. She was involved with St John’s School Leatherhead for over a decade, initially as Chair of the Parent Association (2014-2016), before being elected to the Governing Council in 2015. She played an instrumental role in shaping policies on education, risk management, compliance, and safeguarding. Lesley was subsequently appointed as St John’s first female Chair of the Governing Council where she was recognised for successfully enhancing governance and strategic direction. Her strong leadership helped in positioning St John’s as forward-thinking, adapting to the evolving educational landscape while preserving the school’s core values. She retired from St John’s at the end of 2024.