Meet our Co-Leaders
The Co-Leaders have a long history with Child Dynamix, and are committed improving the lives of children and families across Hull. With a wide range of skills, qualifications and experience in the charity and childcare sectors, they work to deliver the charity’s vision and strategy.
Lisa Darnell
Co-Leader - Core Services
I started working for Child Dynamix in 2002 as a part-time finance assistant and have never looked back. Over the years, my career and interests have diversified to include both finance and human resources. My professional development whilst at Child Dynamix includes the completion of the IAB Certificate (International Association of Bookkeeping), a Certificate in Business Studies, and more recently I have graduated with a BA Hons degree in Leadership & Management – something I never thought I could achieve!
I am passionate about the opportunities we offer to our local communities through volunteering and employment, as well as the support we offer through our services. Having grown up on the Preston Road Estate, I have strong ties to the local area and understand some of the issues facing residents who live in areas of high deprivation.
I am proof that the work and opportunities Child Dynamix offer the local communities are available to anyone who has the desire to achieve.
Naomi Clark
Co-Leader - Charity Services
I became inspired to work with children from a young age. Through various volunteering roles, I was able to see how children grow, learn and develop which solidified my interest to pursue this as a career. I first started working for Child Dynamix as a Nursery Officer when the Janet Genter Community Nursery opened in 2001. Now with over 23 years’ experience in the childcare industry, I have progressed through a variety of roles and currently hold the position of Head of Childcare Services.
My role is very varied and includes responsibility for all childcare projects across the company, including day nurseries, crèches and holidays schemes. During my time with Child Dynamix I have successfully completed my BA Degree in Early Years and hold the Early Years Professional status, as well as qualifications in leadership and management, amongst others.
Meet our Trustees
Child Dynamix is privileged to have a mixture of long-serving and newly appointed trustees, giving their time and expertise as volunteers to the charity. Our Board of Trustees is responsible for the charity’s governance and strategic direction, and they meet regularly to monitor our progress. Trustees are also responsible for managing the Senior Leadership Team and for our overall professional, legal and financial management.
Bryan Bradley
Trustee Chair
Bryan was a Councillor for 18 years and the Lord Mayor of Hull in 2005/06 and is proud to say he was involved from start to finish on the development of the KCOM (now MKM) Stadium. Bryan was appointed as Deputy Lieutenant in 2007.
Now retired, Bryan has been a Trustee at Child Dynamix for a number of years, and is our current Chair of the Board. Bryan is passionate about helping local children and families. He also a member of the management committee at TS Iron Duke (Hull Sea Cadets).
Bryan is a football fan and Hull City supporter and enjoys watching them play.
George Coyle
Trustee
George has over 40 years experience in the legal profession, and has been praised by peers in his field as an “excellent litigator”.
Passionate about helping local charities, he joined Child Dynamix as a Trustee in 2018, providing his legal and professional expertise.
In his spare time George likes to travel, ski, play golf, and watch football and rugby.
Jan Boyd
Trustee
Jan is an exiled Sanddancer who has lived in East Yorkshire (via Ipswich) since 1996. Jan is the founder and Chief Executive of Hull based Charity EMS Ltd, and has over 20 years experience in the community and voluntary sector.
Jan feels that being a trustee of Child Dynamix means she is giving something back to the community, by helping to support, in a very small way, the much-needed and beneficial work that Child Dynamix deliver.
Jan has lived in Cottingham since 1997, she loves to travel but is also a full time servant to her cat called Keith. She is a season ticket holder at Newcastle United Football Club and has spent many frustrating hours on the terraces of St James’ Park watching them underachieve.
Simon Ford
Trustee
Simon joins the board of trustees, bringing over 14 years of experience in the IT sector and business management.
With a strong foundation in technology and strategic planning, he is excited to support the organisation’s goals and drive meaningful change. Passionate about giving back to the community, Simon is thrilled to use his skills to help local charities thrive.
Outside of work, he enjoys fishing, walking, traveling, and supporting on Hull City—an experience that, as any fan knows, is not for the faint-hearted.
Adrian Lockyer
Trustee
Adrian has worked closely with businesses and schools across our region, helping them navigate their technology and operational needs. Alongside his professional role, he has been a school governor at a local primary school, where he gained valuable insight into governance and trust management.
With his experience in both the business and education sectors, he brings his strategic and practical perspective to the board. As a trustee for Child Dynamix, he is committed to supporting local families in Hull, ensuring they have access to the resources and the opportunities they need!
Outside of work, Adrian is a keen cyclist and a passionate Hull City AFC supporter. Most importantly, he enjoys spending time with his wife, two boys, and lively cocker spaniel.
Jessica Smith
Trustee
Jessica is a local Councillor on Hull City Council, representing the Southcoates ward. She also works as a data and insight officer for a local charity.
She has been involved with Child Dynamix throughout her council and community work, and has now joined the trustee board to help give back to the community and support the incredible work Child Dynamix does.
Outside of work, Jessica is an avid fan of musical theatre and cross-stitching.
Paul Hamnett
Trustee
Paul has been working in the community and voluntary sector since 2007 and is currently the Chief Executive of Hull KR Foundation. He is passionate about serving communities and finding ways to provide solutions to make a difference. Paul has experience working with schools, community and professional sports, and the youth sector. Currently working towards becoming an accredited coach, he is passionate about supporting others to grow, empowering them to overcome obstacles and challenges.
Away from work, Paul has 25 years experience as a hockey coach, supporting teams across the country. A passionate sports fan, he has two wonderful children that always keep him on his toes!
Though Paul is not native to Hull, since working in the city he has enjoyed every minute getting to know people and looks forward to many more years here.
Could You Be Next?
We are looking to grow our Board of Trustees, looking for support from individuals who can add value and knowledge to help develop the future of Child Dynamix in. We are especially keen to hear from those with experience in:
- Finance
- Marketing
- IT
- Human Resources
