Jo Francis

I am a qualified accountant with over 20 years’ experience firstly at a large local Accountancy Practice and then more recently whilst running my own accountancy business.  This experience has enabled me to assist the Directors of HBCL with their financial obligations.

My role started with the filing of annual accounts but as the Company has grown I am now also involved in producing monthly management information, invoicing, payroll calculations, preparing budgets and forecasts.  I also assist the Directors in producing agreements for both our specialists and our clients.

Throughout my career, I have enjoyed working with a number of local Charities and not for profit organisations both in a professional capacity and as a volunteer.  I am currently the Chair of Governors at a local Primary School and volunteer at a local Community Outreach Project providing food for those in need.

I feel passionately that all children deserve an excellent education whatever their background and during my children’s time at primary school I was given the opportunity to become a governor.  I have recently taken over as Chair which involves working with the Head Teacher to ensure that the school is providing an excellent education for all children.  I am supported by an excellent Governing Body who have taught me a great deal about life in the education sector.

The Community Outreach Project was brought to my attention when my daughter was looking for volunteering opportunities.  We volunteer together at this lifeline for a number of families and individuals.  Our role is to sort the food donated by local supermarkets and then serve the customers.  Unlike traditional food banks we tailor the food to the individuals needs so a large part of our role is to chat with customers to understand who they are feeding and what they like.  It is so rewarding as the people we see are so grateful for everything they are given; whether it is food or someone to talk too who takes an interest in them as a person.