HSP Welcomes New Independent Board Members

Responding to upcoming term completions and the need to broaden expertise, HSP attracted 19 high‑calibre applicants from across community, sport, education, health, business, and charity sectors. After a robust shortlisting and interview process, seven new Independent members have been appointed.

Joining the Board are:

• Jane Shewring – National Director for Place & Programmes at StreetGames; former Deputy Director at HSP (started March 2026)
• Amanda Mayes – Operations Director at Magus Private Wealth and parkrun Ambassador (starts September 2026)
• Joe Goude – Head of Workforce Development & Transformation at English Football League in the Community; former CEO of Stevenage FC Foundation (starts September 2026)
• Rhys Evans – Community Investment Manager at Peabody and Community Sports Coach for Fullerians RFC (starts September 2026)
• Stewart Hunt – Interim Director of Sport, Academies, and Commercial Innovation at Oaklands College and Director at Apex (starts September 2026)
• Andrew Anastasiou – Head of Fundraising & Partnerships at Goods for Good; Strategic Consultant (starts August 2027)
• Debbie Ryan – Chair of Trustees at St Albans City Youth FC; former non-executive Director England Netball and HR professional (starts June 2026)

The appointees bring a powerful mix of community insight, strategic influence, and lived experience of tackling inequalities, perfectly aligned with HSP’s mission to ensure those who face the greatest barriers have the best chance to be active.

As part of these changes, Hester Hearn will become Chair of HSP Board as Mervyn’s term ends in early 2026. The Partnership thanks Mervyn for his outstanding leadership and the positive legacy he leaves behind.

Successful candidates attended the March 2026 Board meeting as observers ahead of their formal induction and staggered start dates.

The HSP Board comprises volunteers with diverse skills, experience and backgrounds linked to the objectives set out in the HSP Strategic Plan 2022-27. The Board plays a vital function – to provide strategic direction and oversight and support the staff team to achieve the Partnership’s mission.

Hester Hearn, incoming Chair of HSP Board, said:

“We were blown away by both the quality and the passion of the applicants. Our new Board members bring fresh perspectives, deep community connections, and a shared commitment to reducing inequalities in sport and physical activity. Their expertise will be invaluable as we continue to drive positive change across Hertfordshire. I would also like to thank Mervyn for his exceptional leadership and the steady guidance he has provided to the Partnership over many years.”