John is a determined, innovative and successful waste and renewable energy professional. He has created and delivered new European markets for waste wood biomass and refuse derived fuels for large corporate clients and many smaller businesses. He continues to advise, negotiate fuel contracts and supply waste derived fuels throughout the UK and Europe. In tandem with this work John and partners have developed a £30 million combined heat and power plant burning waste wood biomass at Holbrook, near Sheffield.
This supplies heat to the local district heating schemes and electricity to the Grid. His family firm farms a small mixed unit in the Scottish Borders. A governor and Chair of governors of 15 years standing at primary, federation primaries and secondary school means John brings both passion for children’s education and extensive experience in governance of schools. He is particularly adept at working with schools, bringing to bear his extensive finance and development skills from in his working life. He also brings extensive leadership experience, particularly in working with teams to assess, review strategy, set targets and deliver improved performance.
He has also had broad experience in managing organisational change. His enthusiasm for helping to bring about better schools for better outcomes for pupils remains undiminished after many years of governing.