Richard is the seat holder for employment, a role that reflects his unwavering dedication to transforming lives through meaningful work. Richard has a deep, practical understanding of the criminal justice system and the barriers people face in accessing employment. He brings over 25 years of experience spanning the voluntary, public, and private sectors - including positions in prisons and probation.
As Deputy Chief Executive at Working Chance, Richard provides strategic leadership with a sharp focus on employer engagement, forging pathways between inclusive employers with candidates who are ready to thrive, while also overseeing the charity’s service delivery team, which supports women with convictions into sustainable, fulfilling jobs.
Whether designing programmes, influencing policy, or mentoring individuals, Richard’s career is rooted in the belief that access to work is a powerful lever for change. His expansive network of UK and international contacts, built over decades of collaboration and leadership, continues to open doors and shift perceptions across sectors.
Driven by a lifelong dedication to helping people unlock their potential, Richard’s mission is clear: to make employment not only accessible, but truly transformative.