John is a local government and partnership leader of services for children, education and adults. John joined Cumbria in February 2020, prior to which he completed two years in interim director or children's services roles for Lancashire in 2018 and West Sussex during 2019, in both roles leading improvement in under-performing services.

During his time in Cumbria, John has worked with NHS leaders across Lancashire and Cumbria and the North East, to shape and improve health and care services in the region. This of course was during the time of immense challenge arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, and preparing for local government reorganisation in Cumbria. John has also previously worked in Bristol as director for children and adults services and director of children's services in Hull following 20 years plus in public service in inner London boroughs.

In both John’s work and personal life he is determined to play his part in narrowing the gap of achievement and opportunity and doing what he can to influence others to work towards a fairer and healthier society and is committed to driving those values for Cumbria and the Lancashire and South Cumbria ICB.