Orla has been a Trustee since 2016 and was appointed Chair of the Trust Board in 2023. A debt finance lawyer by profession, Orla led the real estate finance team of a leading city law firm for over a decade and now provides consultancy services to investment banks and law firms. She brings extensive expertise in finance, governance, and strategic leadership.

Orla is passionate about social justice and the transformative power of education. Outside work, she enjoys horse riding and tennis and is a Fellow of the RSA.

Nick was appointed a Trustee in January 2020 and chairs the Education and Standards Committee. His career has focused on city planning in local government in London and Manchester; and executive education and organisational change at the Alliance Manchester Business School.

Nick holds an MBA from the University of Cambridge and a Doctorate from the University of Manchester – his main research interest is in understanding the barriers to corporate transformational change using action research methodology.  He has worked extensively in the design and delivery of executive education programmes at the Business School.

Nick’s experience and expertise in strategic thinking and organisational development contributes to the Trust Board’s growth strategy.  He also has a keen interest in supporting the School Improvement work of the Trust and is committed to advancing educational excellence across all CRST schools.

Eric has served the Trust for over a decade, previously as Chair and now as Vice Chair and Chair of the HR Committee. His distinguished career includes senior leadership roles in education, notably as Chief Inspector of Schools and Executive Director for Education and Lifelong Learning in Sandwell.

Eric later established an educational consultancy, working with the Department for Education and the Baker Dearing Trust until his retirement in 2015. Eric’s extensive governance and leadership experience continues to support CRST’s strategic direction. He enjoys walking both in the UK and abroad and spending time with his family.

Nasa joined the CRST Board in January 2025, motivated by a desire to give back to the communities served by the Trust, having attended one of its schools as a student. He brings a wealth of leadership experience from his career in the British Army, where he was commissioned into the Royal Engineers in 2016.

Specialising in Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Search (EOD&S), Nasa has undertaken operational deployments to Ukraine, Iraq, and West Africa. His career has included roles as Regimental Operations Officer and Chief of Staff for a high-readiness unit, overseeing force generation and global operations. In 2024, he was awarded the King’s Commendation for Valuable Service and promoted to Major. He is currently employed within the MoD’s Military Strategic Headquarters.

Nasa’s strategic leadership and operational expertise strengthen CRST’s governance capacity. Outside work, he is a fitness enthusiast and avid traveller with a passion for exploring new cultures and cuisines.

Gareth joined the Trust in early 2023 and serves as Chair of the Finance and Resources Committee. A qualified accountant with KPMG, Gareth has held senior financial management roles across the IT, telecommunications, and construction sectors. He currently works for Transport for London, overseeing the financial governance of major construction projects during a period of significant challenge.

Gareth brings extensive experience from both private and public sectors to support the Trust’s financial strategy and embed best-practice processes. Outside work, Gareth enjoys cycling, countryside walks with his partner and dog, and exploring new destinations.

Richard Davies has more than twenty years’ experience in school governance, including long-standing service as a governor at Arrow Vale High School.

As a Trustee and member of the Audit & Risk Committee, Richard brings strong local knowledge and an independent, practical perspective to the Board. He is committed to the Trust’s values and its focus on social justice, ensuring all pupils have access to high-quality education and opportunities.

Claire has been a headteacher since 2007 and is currently CEO of a Church of England multi-academy trust. She has led three primary schools in diverse communities and served as a Local Leader of Education and member of Devon SACRE for over a decade. Claire has chaired an Interim Executive Board for a secondary school and is passionate about coaching and mentoring leaders to drive school improvement.

Appointed as a CRST Trustee in September 2023, Claire brings expertise in leadership development, accountability, and Christian distinctiveness. Outside work, she supports her local cricket club as Safeguarding Officer and recently received the Safe Hands Award for her commitment to welfare and safeguarding.

John rejoined the CRST Board in March 2022, having previously served as a Trustee and RSA Nominated Governor. With over 40 years in education, including as a College Principal, John now runs a consultancy supporting schools and colleges with improvement planning and curriculum development. He also brings significant governance experience from his role as a Non-Executive Director in the NHS, where he chaired Audit and Remuneration Committees.

John’s deep understanding of governance and risk management strengthens the Trust’s oversight and assurance processes.

Chris is Headteacher of South Bromsgrove High School, a single academy trust serving approximately 1,350 students in North Worcestershire. He has held the role since 2017 and brings over 25 years of experience in education, including leadership positions as Head of School, Deputy Headteacher, Assistant Headteacher, and Director of Learning.

Chris is passionate about the transformative power of education and was drawn to CRST’s commitment to social justice, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. As a member of the Education and Standards Committee, he uses his extensive experience to support school leaders and drive improvement across the Trust.

Outside of work, Chris is a keen rugby enthusiast and enjoys mountain walking both in the UK and internationally.