Paul became CEO of NEAS in 2026 following a distinguished career working across local authorities and government, tackling poverty and supporting vulnerable people.

Derek joined NEAS in 2015 as Social Enterprise Manager, later leading Employment Futures as Employment Services Manager. In 2026 he became Chief Operating Officer supporting Care and Community Services.

Tracey joined the society in 2017 as Learning and Development Manager before moving into education in school leadership roles. She has many years of experience working in education prior to joining NEAS and has supported the development of new schools within the society. As Director of Education, Tracey now oversees the leadership and strategic development of four schools and a college, ensuring high-quality provision and positive outcomes for all learners.

Corrina began her education career in 2010 and has built a strong record of teaching English across diverse educational settings. Her focus on high‑quality teaching, staff development, and improved learner outcomes supported her progression through senior roles including Head of English and Humanities, Programme Area Lead, Vice Principal, and now Principal. Her leadership centres on raising standards, strengthening professional practice, and driving whole‑school improvement.

Sean began his career in education in 2011 and has spent the past decade in senior leadership, serving as both Deputy Headteacher and Headteacher. With a background in Sport Psychology and Education, he brings strong academic insight to his work, and Sean combines academic insight with practical leadership experience to create thriving learning environments. His leadership is defined by a clear focus on positive outcomes for students, staff, and the wider school community.

Helen started her educational career in 2003, teaching students with special educational needs and autism in a land-based setting in Durham. She progressed to programme area lead for foundation learning and a specific autism provision before moving into learning and development at NEAS and then undertook the role as Quality Manager at Aycliffe School. After five years working for a local authority, she has taken up the role of Principal of Thornhill Park School.

Christine started her NEAS career as a support worker in 2004. She progressed to a senior, assistant manager and registered manager before taking up her current position in supported living.

Jackie has worked for NEAS for more than 20 years and has managed a number of residential homes in Sunderland, as well as developing the supported living service in Newcastle and Durham.

Cath worked as a residential manager for Darlington Council and in a residential school before joining NEAS in 2013. She has a Diploma in Management, NVQ Assessors Award and a BSc (Hons) degree in social work.

Grainger joined us as a Programme Support Worker in 2004, and has worked in a variety of roles including Operations Manager of Adult Day Services and Positive Proactive Support lead.

Valerie is a chartered certified accountant who joined NEAS in 2022 after years of experience of running company and charity finances. She says her job is to ensure the Society can provide its services to users.

Having over 20 years’ experience of working within employment services, John joined the Employment Futures department in 2017 as an Employer Engagement Officer. He is now Employment Services Manager for the department, leading a team of 20 staff across the North East.

Lisa joined NEAS in 2010 as Marketing Officer and played a key role in building the charity’s fundraising and marketing teams. She became Marketing Manager in 2018 and now leads her team in raising awareness of NEAS’s mission and championing greater acceptance for autistic people and their families through impactful campaigns.