Jo was born and schooled in East Manchester. From leaving further education in 1984 Jo has followed her passion to improve outcomes for children, young people and families experiencing challenges and marginalisation, through both paid and voluntary roles.
Following her roles within local authority which culminated in developing and managing Sure Start Centres, Jo moved to the voluntary sector in 2011. She took on the role of CEO of St Peter’s Partnerships in Tameside in 2014 at a time of uncertainty and instability and has restructured the organisation, tripling it’s workforce and reach, to develop a vital community hub. Now known as LEAP Children, Families & Communities, the charity provides a range of accessible services and opportunities for local children and adults, which inspire learning, empowerment and participation.
Jo is also Chair of Governors at Holy Trinity Primary School and sits as a Director on the Ashton Pioneer Homes Governance Board. Jo views these roles as privileged positions, which enable her to influence and support wider strategies and developments to bring about positive impact, hope and change.
Jo was commissioned as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2024.