Stephen joins BEST on 1^st September, bringing with him extensive experience in financial leadership. He will play a key role in helping to ensure we continue to improve outcomes for all children at BEST;

"I am looking forward to joining BEST as the Chief Financial Officer. I already have a real appreciation of its values, ambitions and the positive difference it makes to children, young people and our local communities. I am excited by the opportunity to use my experience and understanding to support schools within my own community. I believe good stewardship is about making the best use of our resources to create a sustainable future for our schools, enabling them to focus on what matters most – delivering the very best education and opportunities for every child. I look forward to working alongside colleagues across the Trust to help achieve that."

As a member of the Central Services team, Stephen will be based at BEST House in Shefford leading the finance function of the trust.

We are delighted to appoint Stephen to be our next CFO, following a rigorous recruitment process.  He impressed us with his vast experience, professionalism and commitment to excellence.  Stephen knows our schools and community well, being both a school governor and living locally.  He will be a tremendous asset to BEST! (Dr Alan Lee, CEO BEST)

We would like to thank Kim Rowe for her three years of outstanding service as BEST's Chief Financial Officer, and wish her all the very best for her retirement at the end of September. Under Kim’s leadership, financial sustainability has been secured. Kim has expertly supported Principals and Nursery Managers to overcome challenges faced and brought great understanding to financial procedures and reporting across BEST’s schools, subsidiaries and charity.

Reflecting on her time at BEST, Kim said, “It has been the most rewarding of my career. It has been a genuine privilege to work with such an amazing and committed team. There is something very special about the culture at BEST."