I began my career in 1997 at SunnyBrae Care Home as a Care Assistant. I qualified as a nurse in 2005 and completed an MSc in Dementia Studies in 2016. In 2021, I was awarded the title of Queen’s Nurse and began my PhD.

I have worked as a Dementia Care Home Manager before progressing to a Turnaround Manager role, supporting services that needed additional care and guidance. I then moved into senior management, with a national focus on dementia care, workforce development, and leadership. My work has been recognised through several national awards, including RCN Nurse Leader of the Year (2018), National Care Leader of the Year (2018), and Scottish Manager of the Year (2019).

I am deeply passionate about creating care home environments where people can flourish, and where staff feel valued, confident, and inspired in their roles. I believe that meaningful activity, connection with nature, and a strong sense of purpose are essential for wellbeing. Through compassionate leadership and continuous learning, I strive to promote a culture where care is not only safe and skilled, but also kind, creative, and person-led.