Phil Storer

Chair of Trustees

Phil has held several senior roles in both large plc’s and private businesses, both in UK and in mainland Europe.

A qualified finance professional, Phil developed into a generalist. He spent 16 years with Exel (now DHL) where he worked across a number of supply chains with both retailers and producers as well as delivering large M&A and development projects. Latterly, Phil has operated large-scale pan European circular economy (reuse) system models both in the FMCG/Retail and polymer sectors.

Now retired from full-time employment. Phil is using his experience and knowledge to give something back by helping others.

Mike Moore
Vice-Chair of Trustees

Mike worked as a project officer in the School Organisation Team of Derby City Council for over 20 years, mainly with responsibility for advising schools on premises related issues but also on schools emergency planning, health and safety and a wide range of other general educational issues. He held responsibility for the prioritisation, planning and delivery of a large number of very high value Capital Programme school premises improvement schemes. He has previously worked in the City as a Headteacher, so is able to bring a breadth of experiences to his post as a Trustee.

Sarah Charles

Current role is at University of Derby as Head of Provider Led ITE and EYTS and Deputy Head of the Professional Studies Department. Member of Quality and Academic Excellence Sub-committee and Teacher Education Research Group. Previously a Leading Literacy Teacher in Staffordshire.

Claire Brown

Claire became a school governor at Portway Junior School in 2005 and served as Chair of Governors for 10 years. This gave her a wealth of experience in Primary governance through involvement at Portway, interaction with other schools and the Local Authority.

Claire works for Atos (a worldwide IT company) in their UK Finance Operations. Her role involves Finance systems development, implementation and support - problem solving and working with local and global teams. These skills have been valuable in her work with schools in Derby.

Rose Richmond

Rose is a new Trustee with many years of experience as a Governor. She strongly believes that every child has a right to an excellent education and that literacy is key. Her day job is in Real Estate Management in the Telecoms industry which has given her a skillset that includes the management of projects, budgets and people, and a solid understanding of processes and Governance.

Samantha Mitchell

With over 20 years of experience in the employability and education sector, Sam has dedicated her career to supporting educational providers in various capacities. For eight years, she held the role of Director and Executive member, gaining valuable insights into the industry's intricacies. However, in January 2023, she decided to embark on a new journey and establish her own consultancy business focusing on assisting educational providers in their preparation for Ofsted, ensuring compliance, staff development, and providing overall problem-solving solutions.

Her strong belief is that everyone deserves a high-quality educational experience and continuous professional development throughout their chosen life path. This belief has been the driving force behind her professional endeavours. She is passionate about empowering educational institutions to deliver exceptional learning environments for students and educators alike.

Elizabeth Starr

Elizabeth Starr is a senior strategic leader and Director of Governance and Performance for the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, with extensive experience in governance, scrutiny, HR, risk, and organisational development. With a background in mathematics and Level 7 strategic leadership qualifications, she has progressed rapidly through high‑level roles, leading compliance, performance, HR processes, and major recruitment, while shaping strategy and fostering ethical, collaborative cultures. Motivated by a strong sense of social responsibility and a belief in the power of education to transform lives, she seeks to bring her independent scrutiny skills, inclusive leadership, and commitment to equity to the Odyssey Collaborative Trust, supporting effective governance and driving positive outcomes for children and communities.

Alice Clark

As a parent of two children in primary school and a former Scout Leader, Alice is deeply committed to the idea that learning should be an adventure that sparks curiosity and joy. Alice brings this personal commitment to the Board, alongside professional expertise in strategic governance and operational resilience.

Currently Deputy Director of Strategy at the Government Property Agency, Alice brings extensive experience in managing large budgets, strategic planning, and complex organisational structures. Her career in facilities management and infrastructure has equipped her with a robust understanding of statutory compliance, health and safety, and financial sustainability. Alice offers the board a blend of commercial acumen and a parent’s perspective, dedicated to ensuring our schools are safe, efficient, and inspiring environments for every child.