Trustees and Governance

Robert Templar – Chair 

I was drawn to Community Action Bradford & District by the chance to give something back to Bradford’s voluntary sector.

After many years working as a Global Strategy Director with AT&T, I wanted to use my skills to help strengthen the support available to the many frontline organisations that make such a difference in our communities.

I first connected through my role as trustee and treasurer at The Craven Trust, where I’ve seen first-hand the power of local charities and community groups.

I care deeply about fairness, integrity and collaboration and I’m committed to helping create opportunities for people and organisations to thrive. Outside of volunteering, I enjoy delving into local history, long-distance walking and skiing in the Italian Dolomites.

Mark Gerdes – Treasurer

My journey with Community Action Bradford & District began from the outside, working alongside other VCSE organisation in Bradford as we came together to shape what the organisation is today.

Becoming a Trustee felt like a natural next step for me, it’s my way of giving back to the community that gives so much.

I bring with me experience in commercial development, marketing, business development and research, and I hope to use this knowledge to support and strengthen the work of Community Action in serving local voluntary organisations.

I am also the Chair of Bradford Community Payroll and accounts (the commercial trading subsidiary of Community Action Bradford & District), and Bradford Flower Fund Homes.

Mark Nicholson

I became involved with Community Action Bradford & District through my work in the VCSE sector, as CEO of Equality Together, where I’ve seen first-hand the difference its support makes.

Inspired by the organisation’s values and ethos, I chose to become a trustee to help strengthen its role as the leading infrastructure body for our area, providing insight and voice from the sector.

I am also the Chair of the Company Performance Ensemble, and Trustee of Marching & Performing Arts UK, and Northern Academy of Performing Arts.

With over 35 years’ experience as a strategic and operational lead, I bring a passion for collaboration and partnership working in order to produce innovative approaches and solutions.

I’m keen to share insight from the sector and help to develop innovative approaches that support the voluntary organisations we serve.

Katherine Wyatt

I first connected with Community Action through its earlier form, Bradford Council for Voluntary Services, before moving on to various roles and freelance work. Returning as a Trustee felt like the right step.

It allows me to share my experiences and continue supporting the local sector that I care so much about.

With a background in grassroots voluntary work here in Bradford, and my current role as a Business Coach, I hope to bring both insight and practical skills.

I’m especially keen to offer constructive challenge, and help to build stronger links between social enterprises, business, and community support.

Alkestid Sterjo

I first became involved with Community Action as an intern, later working as a Development Officer before stepping into my role as a trustee. I was drawn to the opportunity not only to give back but also to grow my own knowledge and skills as part of a board.

I bring a multicultural perspective alongside academic experience with degrees in BSc in Human Resource Management, MA in International Relations and Security Studies, and MSc in Applied Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics.

My involvement with a range of charitable organisations has shaped my commitment to supporting diverse communities, and I hope to use my background to strengthen Community Action’s impact.

Ryan Phagurey

I first connected with Community Action through the Big Meet, which was sponsored by my employer RBC Brewin Dolphin, where I work within the Charities team. Shortly afterwards, I came across the trustee opportunity and felt inspired to get involved.

Growing up in Bradford and being part of grassroots football has given me a strong understanding of the challenges facing local communities. I’m drawn to Community Action because of its broad and practical approach to tackling social issues and supporting people where it matters most.

As a qualified Chartered Wealth Manager, I bring finance expertise, sector knowledge, and a strong professional network. I also see this trusteeship as a valuable opportunity for personal development, deepening my experience of governance and board-level decision making while helping Community Action to grow and thrive.

Jo Jepson

I came across Community Action Bradford & District in my role as CEO for Project 6, I’m connected into the Leaders’ Network which has really helped me to understand the wider area and issues that are pressing for other charity leaders in the area. It also enabled me to build a local network, and being new to the area this was a priority for my first year in post.

I was drawn to joining the Board as I recognise the strength of infrastructure organisations, and how crucial it is to bridge the gap between system decision makers, grant makers and smaller community groups who often do not have the resources to tap into conversations and opportunities. I am passionate about social mobility and ensuring that small charities gain both the recognition of their work and can access much needed support. Community Action champions all of these values and aligns closely to my own journey in the charity sector. 

I’m looking forward to sharing my experience and knowledge of managerial and strategic leadership, these include workforce and personnel matters, as well as navigating an ever-changing environment.