Head of New Business
With over 30 years at Family Lives, Sandra has extensive experience which spans both the commercial and charity sectors, allowing her to bring a unique perspective to business development strategies.
Sandra's professional background is rooted in counselling, training, and leadership. A qualified BACP practitioner, a CPD-accredited trainer, PRINCE2 Registered Practitioner and CBT therapist Sandra, has developed a deep understanding of both client and organisational needs, contributing towards Family Lives' mission of supporting vulnerable families and marginalised communities.
Sandra is passionate about empowering her team and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment that encourages innovation and collaboration. Her leadership style is characterised by empathy, integrity, and a commitment to delivering quality service.
Sandra started with Parentline UK as a volunteer call taker in 1991, and, utilising her training background she progressed to volunteer trainer and eventually Regional Trainer, supporting the development of the volunteer training programme for the helpline. After the merger with Stepfamily Association in 1999 (to form Parentline Plus, later Family Lives) Sandra was instrumental in developing the training for, and piloting the launch of, our Individual Telephone Support service.
In 2001, Sandra became Area Manager of the Hertfordshire office and took a proactive role in developing and building local services across the county, expanding our reach and profile with Local Authorities and Voluntary Sector Agencies. In 2010 Sandra became part of the Senior Leadership Team to support the Business Development of the area offices and the national organisation.