Kirsty Cumming, CEO
Kirsty Cumming has been with Community Leisure UK for over 7 years, primarily leading on the engagement and policy work in Scotland, and was appointed as Chief Executive in November 2020.
She has extensive experience in working with leisure trusts, local authorities, local and national governments, and the NHS to advocate the role of public leisure services. She is passionate about the role of public leisure and culture for communities and believes that the charitable trust model delivers effective community focused services based on local needs.
Jennifer Huygen, Head of Policy and Strategic Partnerships
Jennifer has been working with Community Leisure UK since March 2019. Prior to working with us, Jennifer worked on various community-focused programmes in Armenia, the Netherlands, Uganda, United Kingdom, and Washington D.C. (United States). She graduated with distinction from the University of Glasgow with a Masters degree in Creative Industries and Cultural Policy, and is passionate about supporting social enterprises in their development. Outside of work, Jennifer can usually be found exploring new places, especially (local) museums and (natural) heritage sites, or going for a hike or run, followed by a good pizza.
Rachel Sim, Project and Research Officer, England & Wales
Rachel joined Community Leisure UK in November 2020 as Project and Research Officer for England and Wales and is focusing on supporting our Special Interest Groups. Previously she worked in local government in a range of roles in democratic services, project management and managing public consultation and engagement. She has recently completed a Diploma in Social Media Management and has an MA in Middle East Politics from Exeter University and a BA in Politics from Lancaster University.
Kate Doyle, Administration and Operations Co-ordinator
After graduating from the University of Portsmouth, Kate worked in television as a freelance script supervisor for several years before joining Community Leisure UK in November 2011. When not at work, Kate enjoys long walks with family and friends and playing tennis at her local club where she volunteers as a Welfare Officer.
David Taylor, Communications Officer
David joined Community Leisure in December 2021 as the company’s part-time Communications Officer. David worked as a senior journalist and assistant news editor at the Wigan Evening Post for almost a decade before moving into PR in 2008. His previous role was as Strategic Marketing and PR Manager for Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles. He is a passionate believer in the Trust Model and its benefits. When he’s not working he spends his time growing veg or out walking.
Lisa Krockel, Active Kindness Programme Manager
Lisa joined Community Leisure UK in December 2021 as Active Kindness Programme Manager. Lisa has managed physical activity, sport and community heath projects across the charitable, education and local authority sectors, often with a focus on volunteers. In 2014, Lisa moved across to the NHS to manage a unique mental health intervention project which inspired her to embark on further postgraduate study in psychological therapy and wellbeing. When not working, Lisa enjoys country runs, table-tennis, adventure travel and a pint of Guinness!
Janice Botterill, Network Support Officer
Janice joined Community Leisure UK in April 2022 as Network Support Officer, primarily supporting members across our Special Interest Groups. She has gained a wide range of administrative and project experience across education and community settings and is passionate about art, culture and the environment.
