Our Leadership Team
Jamie Anderson BA Hons, CMgr FCMI FInstLM – Chief Executive
jamie.anderson@ageukwirral.org.uk
A lifelong Wirral resident, I have worked in senior roles across Wirral’s third sector for over 20 years. After completing an English Degree at the University of Liverpool, my first role locally was working in the advice sector, and I have subsequently held a range of management and leadership roles across a broad range of both front line and corporate / strategic areas. I took over the role of Chief Executive of Age UK Wirral in December 2015, having held the position of Deputy CEO for a number of years previously. It is a true privilege to lead this incredible organisation, and I am in awe daily at the incredible work that all of our volunteers and staff undertake to make such an enormous difference to the lives of people in our communities.
I am committed to trying to improve the lives of local older people and overcome the dramatic health and social inequalities that exist here in Wirral. I believe in co-producing solutions with people, and person-centred practice is at the heart of my approach. I am driven to continue to tackle the root causes of issues that prevent older people from living independent and fulfilling lives for as long as they possibly can. I am passionate about improving opportunities and support for people living with dementia and their carers.
I am passionate about developing and maintaining a strong, independent third sector in the Borough, which is responsive and makes a real difference to the heart of local communities. I have been described as a person-centered, innovative, solutions-focused leader, with key skills including strategic development & review, organisational restructuring, funding, and income generation, tendering and commissioning, people management, and change management. My external roles include serving as a Director of Wirral Health & Wellbeing CIC and as a mentor and coach to sector leaders both locally, regionally and nationally.
Outside of work, I have a strong interest in performing arts, and worked as a Dance Teacher, Choreographer and Adjudicator across Europe for several years. Having retired from professional teaching in recent years, I now enjoy spending my spare time with my large family of Miniature Smooth Dachshunds.
Why not follow me on Twitter? @AgeUKWirralCEO
Sue Sanford – PA to the Chief Executive
suesanford@ageukwirral.org.uk
I started my working life in 1976 when I left school and was employed in London as an Insurance Clerk for Commercial Union Insurance Company. In 1980 I left work to study at college for a year and obtained certificates in shorthand and typing. I then returned to work in London Westminster and was employed again at Commercial Union as a shorthand typist and then PA to the Underwriting Manager.
In 1996 I moved to Wirral and started work at Age Concern Wirral as a work placement. In 1997 I was employed as the PA to the Chief Executive and have continued in this role to date.
My interests are watching documentaries, reading and sewing.
Jenny Paton – Deputy Chief Executive
jenny.paton@ageukwirral.org.uk
I originally studied Law at University, but I wasn’t 100% sure it was the career I wanted. I’ve always volunteered in different activities, so decided to look for work in charitable organisations while I made up my mind about my long-term career. 19 years later, I am firmly embedded in this sector, and love the fact I work somewhere where we make a difference every day, and that I am surrounded by people who are as enthusiastic and passionate about our work as I am.
I joined Age UK Wirral in 2006 as the Volunteer Coordinator and have worked my way up from Middle Manager to Senior Manager and, for the last three years, have been in post as Deputy Chief Executive.
Outside of work, I have two children and a close-knit family, I enjoy running and exercising and eating all the things that make those two activities necessary!
Julie Rooney – Registered Manager & Head of Care
julie.rooney@ageukwirral.org.uk
I have worked in Health and Social Care for 21 years and joined Age UK Wirral 9 years ago.
I first joined the care sector starting an interim course whilst trying to decide which path to take in my career, I quickly enjoyed the role and became passionate about making a difference to people’s lives. My dedication was heightened when at 21 I had to be the person being cared for - I felt I had an insight and a new perception that drove me to continue.
The values of Age UK Wirral mean we all have the same goals and want to achieve the best possible outcome for everyone we meet. I’m excited to be part of a team dedicated to shaping the future of care.
Ellie Thomson – Head of Digital Transformation
elliethomson@ageukwirral.org.uk
I joined Age UK Wirral for 2011 as network technician looking after all aspects of IT in the organisation. Over the next 10 years I was promoted to senior manager where my role is still firmly within the realms of IT but also covers broader areas of the organisation.
I started my working life in the family business of sign making where I introduced and supported several IT methods to gain efficiencies. I then moved into the IT sector where I worked as a technician at 2 high schools within the borough.
My passion has always been in technology, but I realised early in my career that the act of supporting colleagues to perform their own roles was the most rewarding facet of my job. This joy of supporting others has served me well in the organisation and perfectly runs parallel with our ethos of caring and supporting the people of Wirral.
Rachel Williams - Strategic Lead
rachelwilliams@ageukwirral.org.uk
As Strategic Lead my focus is looking at the key missions of Age UK Wirral and translating them into future strategies, plans and projects that will make a real difference in our local community. I take personal and professional pride in seeing the results of good working relationships and working in partnership at all levels.
I am particularly interested in wellbeing and inclusion; I joined Age UK Wirral in March 2022 as Digital Inclusion Lead supporting older and vulnerable people in our community to become involved with the digital age we now live in by building their confidence and capability to make the best use of technology in their day-to-day activities.
My career has largely been within the hospitality sector, working at the Village Hotel, Bromborough for over 23 years, starting on reception and progressing to Meeting & Events Sales Manager and I now apply my wealth of experience of customer service skills and strong relationship management skills to my work at Age UK Wirral.
I have lived on the Wirral all my life and enjoy walking our dog, a black labrador and exploring the many green spaces and lovely scenery we have on our doorstep. I have two teenage children and most weekends I can be found on the touchline supporting the sporting activities of one and operating ‘Mum’s taxi service’ for the other.
Richard Crocker – Finance Director
richardcrocker@ageukwirral.org.uk
I have lived on the Wirral all my life apart from three years away studying and a further three years working in London – this peninsula is a great place to live and work.
After graduating from Oxford University, I trained and qualified as a Chartered Accountant with Price Waterhouse in Liverpool (now Pricewaterhouse Coopers, one of the ‘Big 4’ firms).
After obtaining my professional qualification, I spent the first part of my career working within the larger, corporate sector initially at Goldman Sachs in the City of London (the American Investment Bank) and then at MBNA Europe Bank (the American Retail Bank subsequently acquired by Bank of America) based in Chester.
I then moved into the smaller, privately owned business sector and became the Manging Director and Chief Financial Officer of the Ethel Austin Property Group headquartered in Liverpool where I obtained significant SME experience.
Following on from there, I joined Wirral Chamber of Commerce as Finance Director where I was responsible for the finances of not just the Chamber but other Group companies including both a Community Interest Company and a Charity.
I joined Age UK Wirral in summer 2019.
Away from work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and son. My son and I are both long suffering Tranmere Rovers supporters!
Our Board of Directors
Paul Smith – Chair
Committees:
· Board of Directors
· Business Committee
· Audit & Risk Committee
· Service Review Committee
· People Committee
· Marketing Strategy Group
Dr Elizabeth White – Vice Chair
I am a retired hospital consultant and was also Medical Director of the Royal Liverpool University Hospital Trust for 10 years. My clinical and managerial experience has made me aware of the health and social challenges facing older people on Merseyside.
I have lived on the Wirral for over 30 years and as a Trustee of Age UK Wirral I hope to use my previous knowledge and experience to help improve the health and well-being of older people in my local community.
Committees:
· Board of Directors
· Audit & Risk Committee
· Service Review Committee
Myles Edwards – Treasurer
I joined Age UK Wirral as a Trustee in October 2020. I was born and raised in Birkenhead, have a long association with Age UK nationally and am committed to supporting Age UK Wirral enhancing the lives of people in later life.
An experienced Executive and Non-Executive Director, I have extensive governance, risk management and commercial experience in mutuals and social enterprises in financial services and healthcare sectors. I am currently a member of Royal London’s Independent Governance Committee, Non-Executive Director at Magenta Living and a member of their Audit and Risk and Communities Committee.
Committees:
· Board of Directors
· Business Committee
· Audit & Risk Committee
Patsy Crocker – Trustee
I started my career in 1984 as a Management Trainee at Midland Bank plc (now HSBC) in my hometown of Wrexham, North Wales. Having been a Bank Manager for 5 years, I continued my Financial Services journey at MBNA Bank in Chester where I worked in Customer Service, Collections, Fraud, Marketing and Acquisitions. During this time, I met my husband and moved to the Wirral, where I have lived for 24 years.
Following a career break after my son was born, I ventured into the world of Further Education teaching post-16 Business Studies and Financial Studies where I gained a CertEd and Masters in Advanced Educational Practice (Leadership and Management).
During this time, I set up my own Business Consultancy and worked with SMEs in Wirral supporting their business growth needs. I have continued this support through my work as an Executive Director at Wirral Chamber of Commerce, where I also oversee Skills and Education. I am CIPD qualified.
Having supported Age UK Wirral through Wirral Chamber, I was delighted to become a Trustee in 2018. I am passionate about supporting the Wirral community and ensuring we support our elderly on Wirral to lead as fulfilling lives as possible.
Committees:
· Board of Directors
· Audit & Risk Committee
· People Committee
Brian Williams – Trustee
I enjoyed a 50-year career in Advertising Agencies in London, Leeds, Liverpool and Manchester working with some of the UK’s leading brands across Consumer, B2B, Public Sector and Charities. I currently have my own marketing consultancy and I am a mentor via my membership of the Chartered Institute of Marketing.
I am married with three children, seven grandchildren and live locally in Bebington.
Committees:
· Board of Directors
· Service Review Committee
· Marketing Strategy Group
Ruth Rogers – Trustee
I retired to the Wirral in 2015 having previously been the Chief Executive of a charity providing social independence programmes for people with disabilities. I combined my job with public sector roles, and when I retired, I was Chair of Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and had previously been the Chair of Cambridgeshire Police Authority and Chair of South Cambridgeshire Primary Care Trust.
I had worked with older people in two different roles so my appointment to the board of Age UK Wirral felt like coming home. I have continued voluntary work as a custody visitor for Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner and as a member of School Admissions Appeals Panels and I am active in the Friends of Wallasey Central library.
Committees:
· Board of Directors
· Business Committee
· Audit & Risk Committee
· Service Review Committee
Karalie Burke – Trustee
I was born in Liverpool but grew up in Upton on the Wirral. I went to University in Leicester where I met my husband, Michael. After training to be GPs we settled on the Wirral and joined Eastham Group Practice. We have three children who have all finally left home but remain local and play an active part in our lives.
I developed a special interest in elderly medicine, bone health and falls, and end of life care, participating in the development of local pathways and guidelines. I finally retired as Senior Partner 2 years ago and am now able to spend more time walking, cycling, reading and gardening.
When the opportunity arose to become a trustee of Age UK Wirral I was delighted, and I am very proud to be part of such a forward-thinking organisation.
Committees:
· Board of Directors
· Service Review Committee
Keith Bailey – Trustee
I was one of the baby boomers born Post War. I am married with one son and 2 grandchildren. I was educated at Wallasey Technical Grammar (now Mosslands).
On leaving school I joined the Civil Service but got as far as I could go in promotions. ("you will have to wait 25 years for the next one”). In 1967 I joined the Police Service starting in South Manchester (Cheshire) and working my way back to Wirral. I finally finished my service in Bootle in 1997 in the rank of Chief Inspector.
In 1998 I was elected to the Voluntary and Community Sector Network representing Pensby, Irby and Barnston, and later became joint chair with Myrtle Lacey. hence my first connection with (then) Age Concern Wirral. In 2001 I joined the Board of the Wirral Local Strategic Partnership as Community representative. When the LSP was disbanded in 2004 I was asked to join the Board of Age Concern Wirral and have thoroughly enjoyed working with many wonderful people ever since.
I am currently working as the Stadium Safety Officer for Tranmere Rovers FC. I hold 3 Treasurer posts and am Secretary of 4 other organisations.
Committees:
· Board of Directors
Professor Mike Jones – Trustee
I had a 20 plus year career as a human resource professional. My industrial appointments included periods as Personnel Manager/Director in the Food Products, Engineering and Paper industries before joining the St Helens-based Pilkington Group, as Group Management Development Manager and Managing Director of its subsidiary leadership business, Lakeside Training and Development. This role led me into the university business school world when I was appointed to a Visiting Fellowship at Manchester Business School. In more recent years I was Director General of the Association of MBAs. and Director and Professor of the Foundation for Management Education, responsible for furthering the development of postgraduate management education. I was Dean of the Business School at the University of East London and have served on various Government committees concerned with linking Business and Business School academia.
In my semi-retirement, I continue to work in a consultancy role within the International Business School community. My views on management and business education are widely sought and I have held Advisory Board appointments at a number of the UK leading business schools.
I have developed an interesting portfolio of volunteer activities in addition to his role at Age UK Wirral, including being a Board member for a national housing association, a School Governor, a Trustee at Balliol College, Oxford, and a member of the Wirral Schools Appeals Panel. I am currently a Visiting Professor at Chester University’s Business School. I hold a Doctorate of Business Administration degree and an MSc in Management, and is a Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. I am a member of the Worshipful Company of Marketers and a Freeman of the City of London.
Committees:
· Board of Directors
· Service Review Committee
· People Committee
· Marketing Strategy Group
Dr Peter Barton – Trustee
I am a Senior Lecturer at Liverpool John Moores University. I previously worked as a Management Consultant at Accenture Plc, working across a broach range of industries and sectors. In 2008, I became Strategic Projects Director of Conlons Opticians before joining LJMU in 2017.
I was a Trustee and Chairman of HelpLink before it merged into Age UK Wirral at the end of 2020, and I then joined Age UK Wirral’s Board. I am also a Trustee of the Voluntary Aid Club and a member of Liverpool 41 Club (ex-Liverpool Round Table).
Committees:
· Board of Directors
· Marketing Strategy Grou
Linda Manson - Trustee
Originally from Nottingham and employed by HMC&E after leaving school, I moved to Merseyside in 1980 and apart from a few years in Manchester (1982-87), have lived on Merseyside ever since. I left HMC&E in 1997, when I moved from Crosby to the Wirral and was employed by independent VAT consultancy companies in Stockport and Knutsford.
In 2012 I became a shareholder/director of a Wirral based VAT consultancy, specialising in the charity and education sector, until I retired in November 2020. During this time I also did some volunteer work for Wirral Mencap prior to joining Age UK Wirral as a trustee in 2022. I hope to be able to bring my VAT knowledge and business experience to assist the charity in the future.
I live with my partner in Irby and between us we have 4 adult children and two grandchildren.