Core Team
Amanda Craig
Amanda assumed the role of Chief Executive at NHS R&D North West on April 1, 2022, following a four-month tenure as CEO (Designate). With extensive experience as a strategic and operational leader, she excels in driving transformative change in challenging public sector settings. Amanda has a proven track record in project management, finance, and governance across various organizations. Her 20+ years of experience in negotiations and collaboration, both internally and externally, contribute to her successful leadership. Amanda played a pivotal role in shaping the NW England Nursing, Midwifery, and Allied Health Professional Research Capacity and Capability Strategy 2021-24.
Amanda Craig, Chief Executive
amanda.craig@researchnorthwest.nhs.uk
Professor Gillian Southgate
Gillian is a visionary leader who blends art and science to foster research and innovation. Starting as an Occupational Therapist in the UK and USA, she advocated for holistic health. She later managed a nonprofit and joined NHS Research and Development North West in 2013. As the Director of Collaboration and Communication at NHS R&D NW, Gillian focuses on building research-friendly healthcare networks. She uses creative arts to inspire early career researchers. Gillian holds an MSc, pursues a Professional Doctorate, is a visiting Professor at Manchester Metropolitan University, and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.
Professor Gillian Southgate, Director of Collaboration & Communications
gillian.southgate@researchnorthwest.nhs.uk
Professor Bill Campbell
With over 30 years of experience in higher education, Bill held various significant roles, including Associate Dean in the Faculty of Health, Psychology, and Social Care at Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU), where he spearheaded research capacity development. Bill also served as the head of three academic departments at MMU, all dedicated to training healthcare professionals. His commitment to health and social care research is underscored by his research-focused Master’s and PhD degrees in social psychology from Manchester University. Bill’s contributions extend to chairing the Faculty Academic Ethics and Research Degrees Committees at MMU, shaping research initiatives. He later returned as a Visiting Senior Fellow to promote doctoral education and recently received a Visiting Professorship to further research endeavors.
Professor Bill Campbell, Director of Capacity Development
bill.campbell@researchnorthwest.nhs.uk
Jo-Anne Simpson
Jo-Anne trained at Accrington & Rossendale College and started her career in the NHS in December 1991 as a Personal Secretary for the District Dental Officer at Bury Health Authority. From there she worked her way up through the administration department to take up the role as Information Officer at Rochdale Health Authority. In 2000 Jo-Anne left the NHS to work as an Office Manager for a construction company contracting directly to British Telecommunications where she was responsible for the general running of the company, it was from this position that Jo-Anne gained her managerial and project administration experience. Jo-Anne undertook further project administration work with BT until February 2013 when she returned to the NHS as Operations Manager and Executive Assistant in the NHS R&D North West Team. Jo-Anne has recently completed the Mary Seacole six month leadership programme with the NHS Leadership Academy.
Jo-Anne Simpson, Chief Operating Officer
joanne.simpson@researchnorthwest.nhs.uk
Leanne Gregory
Leanne has worked with the team for over 10 years now, having previously relocated from Leicester back in 2013. Leanne comes from an administrative background in previous roles. Since working with the team, she has progressed through her professional career, completing several qualifications since being with the team including an ILM in Leadership and Management and an CIM in professional marketing. Leanne has a varied and busy role within the team. She provides executive support to the directors and project manages several programmes of work, including the Early Career Researcher Programme. She also leads on all marketing and communications within the team.
Leanne Gregory, Business Manager
leanne.gregory@researchnorthwest.nhs.uk
Heather Pearson
Heather has worked with the team for 2 years now, having previously moved back to the UK from Dubai where she worked for EMIRATES Airlines. Heather has a varied and busy role within the team including finance. She provides executive support to everyone within the team at NHS R&D North West Heather is extremely organised and a great communicator within the team, always ensuring everyone is at the right place at the right time.
Heather Pearson, Business Support Officer
heather.Pearson@researchnorthwest.nhs.uk
Caroline Pickstone
Caroline supports the NHS R&D NW team in delivering the HEE/NIHR Bridging Scheme and developing support for clinical academics and others on a research pathway. Caroline is a speech & language therapist who specialised in profound learning difficulties and paediatrics during a clinical career. Following a prestigious NIHR Clinical Research Fellowship award in 2000, she combined work in health research with clinical practice. She has experience in leading applied health research and as a Chief Operating Officer for the Clinical Research Network in Yorkshire & Humber. She is skilled in working across boundaries between the NHS, NIHR, academic settings and the third sector. She is experienced in delivering projects, working with patients and the public and in troubleshooting. Her strategic skills draw on her understanding of policy and programmes in the wider context of regional and national policy. She is a creative thinker and a skilled presenter.
Professor Caroline Pickstone, Associate Director
Nick Ponsillo
Nick is currently Director of Philip Barker Centre for Creative Learning at The University of Chester, a new centre exploring the use of creative learning and creativity through the life course within the education, health and social care sectors and connecting both sectors with arts and culture. Prior to his current role Nick was Head of Manchester Camerata in the Community (2010-2016), Project Manager at Manchester Camerata, studied music at The University of Huddersfield, has worked as a part-time university lecturer, performer and as a scagliola worker building pieces of interior architectural design for Hayles and Howe. Nick is a member of the MyHub Strategic Board, MyHub Music Trust, SSMEP Board Member.
Nick Ponsillo, Assistant Director
Faculty of Associates
Stuart Eglin
Stuart, previously Chief Executive until March 2022, now serves as Chief Explorer with the team until March 2023. He’s also an External Advisor on evaluation to the NHS Institute for Innovation & Improvement and to Macmillan Cancer Support. Stuart is an accomplished Executive Coach and author with extensive experience in the healthcare sector.
Stuart Eglin
Jane Martindale
Jane, a Chartered Physiotherapist at Wrightington Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust, specializes in rheumatology with over 30 years of experience. An accomplished researcher with a Ph.D., she focuses on Ankylosing Spondylitis and early diagnosis. Jane is an R&D North West team member, passionate about integrating research into clinical practice.
Jane Martindale
Taravandana
Taravandana, with 34 years of NHS experience, combines clinical, management, and OD expertise. She leads consultancy at Future Lives, supporting individuals and teams across sectors with evidence-based approaches like coaching, mentoring, and mindfulness. Taravandana is a mindfulness practitioner and coach, fostering growth and change using tools like appreciative inquiry and MBTI. She’s an Associate of CIPD and a member of the European Mentoring and Coaching Council.
Taravandana
Jana Kennedy
Jana, a Manchester-based artist and facilitator with a decade of experience, specializes in crafting bespoke, collaborative creative workshops for schools, community groups, and more. She is also an associate at NHS R&D North West, bringing her expertise in both performance and visual arts to various settings.
Jana Kennedy
Melanie Chapman
Melanie, a Research Associate at Manchester Learning Disability Partnership since 1999, is a Visiting Fellow at Manchester Metropolitan University. She focuses on enhancing research capacity among health and social care practitioners, conducting diverse research projects, and prioritizing stakeholder involvement. Melanie holds a PhD and degrees in psychology and research.
Melanie Chapman
Su Fowler-Johnson
Su is a dynamic OD consultant with a strong NHS and public sector background. She excels in facilitating change, leadership development, and complex OD projects. Su utilizes evidence-based tools, notably from Professor Michael West’s research, to drive results. She’s a passionate coach and has made significant contributions to primary care nursing services and leadership coaching. Su’s affiliation with the North West R&D faculty fuels her innovative and patient-oriented approach.
Su Fowler-Johnson
Jessica Hearne
Jessica is a Manchester-based writer, filmmaker, and creative consultant at Hearne Creative Ltd. With expertise in storytelling, social media, and website design, she collaborates on diverse projects and balances her business growth with personal creative pursuits.
Jessica Hearne
Dr Helen Hurst
Dr. Helen Hurst, a seasoned renal care professional, brings over 25 years of experience to her role as a Consultant Nurse for Older People. With a strong research background, including a PhD, she actively contributes to various committees and initiatives, emphasizing patient involvement in research. She also collaborates with Manchester University on a renal nursing course and is a CLAHRC fellow. Dr. Hurst’s dedication to learning and patient-centered research makes her a valuable addition to our faculty.
Dr Helen Hurst
Marie Marshall
Dr. Marie Marshall, a Paediatric Diabetes Nurse Specialist with 15 years of experience, excels in clinical research and addressing health inequalities, making her a valuable faculty member.
Marie Marshall
Will Medd
Will is a certified coach and accomplished social scientist known for interdisciplinary research and high-impact stakeholder-involved projects. He’s an ICF accredited coach with experience in coaching, workshop facilitation, and program design. Co-author of ‘Your PhD Coach.’
Will Medd
Gill Phazey
Gill’s extensive NHS career spans various learning and development roles. With an MSc in Organisational Psychology and psychometric testing expertise, she excels in designing, evaluating, and mentoring in leadership and professional development. Gill is a Senior Leadership Development Manager at the NHS North West Leadership Academy and actively engages in research projects. She is also an associate with the NHS R&D North West team.
Gill Phazey
Sue Roberts
Sue Roberts, an experienced leadership development facilitator and executive coach since 1995, collaborates internationally across various sectors. With diverse qualifications and a commitment to research, she fosters resilience and delivers impactful programs. Currently working on a ‘Women in Leadership’ initiative for a Middle East client, Sue joined the R&D faculty to share knowledge and innovate. She resides in North Lancashire, enjoying nature exploration with her border collie.
Sue Roberts
Kevin Wyke
Kevin is an Organisational Development consultant and creative facilitator with a background in the NHS. With over 20 years of experience, he’s passionate about helping individuals and teams unlock their potential through positive conversations and innovative approaches. Kevin enjoys exploring new ideas and is an active outdoor enthusiast in his downtime.
Kevin Wyke
Rob Young
Rob is an award-winning writer known for his diverse work, including collaborations with organizations like Channel 4, BBC, and the Royal Shakespeare Company. His talents span theater, film, and more, earning accolades and a reputation for creative excellence. Rob’s career is marked by a unique blend of storytelling and exploration.
Rob Young
Monica Biagioli
Monica Biagioli is a Senior Lecturer at London College of Communication, UAL. She contributes art and design approaches to enhance a process of discovery or an exchange of ideas. This could be in the form of project development, communication design, and graphic prototyping. Her projects include curation, project development, and the use of arts based methods to develop understanding.
Monica Biagioli
Sara Coppa
Sara, an Experience Designer in London, UK, brings curiosity and passion to her work. Her approach combines analytical thinking with a human-centered perspective, emphasizing the power of design to create meaningful connections between people, spaces, and objects. Sara’s expertise lies in storytelling, using it to craft and communicate projects that leave a lasting impact.
Sara Coppa