Our leadership team
Our Leadership Team
Executive Leadership Team
Vicky Gutteridge, Chief Executive Officer
Life can change in an instant. A health diagnosis, a relationship breakdown, a redundancy – and suddenly you’re facing a situation you never dreamed of: debt, a benefits system that makes no sense, a problem with no obvious next step. I’ve lived it – as a single working mum trying to make ends meet and facing system friction, in addition to unexpected health challenges along the way. That experience is a big part of why I do this work, and why I believe so deeply in what Citizens Advice stands for.
We’re here for everyone – offering advice that’s impartial and non judgmental, and campaigning for policy change that tackles problems at their root, not just their symptoms. Leading Citizens Advice Leicestershire means I get to be part of that every day: a team that meets people exactly where they are, with no judgement about how they got there, and no limit on how far we’ll go to help.
That’s the privilege of this role – the difference we make to one person, one family, one community, and as part of a national federated network reaching millions more. I bring over a decade of leadership across the charity sector to this work, including a master’s in strategic HR management and a track record of building partnerships that create real social value. But it’s the people we serve who keep me here, and who I think about every day.
Rehaan Adam, Head of Operations
I oversee the day-to-day running of Citizens Advice LeicesterShire operations, making sure our team can deliver the best possible service to local people when they need us most.
I ensure our advice sessions have the right systems and processes in place, and work behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly.
With over 20 years of experience in the charity sector, I am committed to making sure that everyone in Leicester and Leicestershire can access free, confidential and impartial advice. I work closely with our managers, supervisors , advisers, volunteers and the leadership team to continually improve how we support our communities, whether that’s helping with debt, housing, benefits or any other issues!
Outside of work, I enjoy swimming, watching local football teams play on a Sunday and being there for my family and friends!
Helen Matthews, Head of Resources
I joined Citizens Advice LeicesterShire in January 2016. My role is a varied one covering management planning and development, Property Management, Health and Safety, HR, training and IT.
It’s a busy role with no two days the same. Time flies, and I really enjoy the variety the role brings and knowing that my work supports services that provide assistance to our local communities.
Melissa March, Head of Income & Partnerships
I’m a passionate fundraiser with a proven track record of raising over £1.5 million for charitable causes. I co-founded and led Learning for the Fourth Age, where I successfully secured funding and provided innovative services for older people in care settings.
I’m skilled at building relationships with funders, collaborating with diverse groups, and designing programmes that meet the needs of communities. I believe in using data to understand impact and ensure that services reach those who need them most.
My experience includes working with a wide range of organisations, from small community groups to large national charities. I’m also a city councillor, where I help residents with a wide range of issues and connect them with the support they need. Additionally, I’m a trained teacher with a degree in history and a PGCE in Adult Education, a school governor at two city schools, and I enjoy running a weekly Woodcraft Folk group for primary school-aged children.
I’m excited to bring my diverse skills and experiences to Citizens Advice LeicesterShire, where I can continue to make a positive difference in people’s lives.
Board of Trustees
Marie-Anne Beere, Chair
After a rewarding 35-year career as a senior civil servant, I retired early and moved to Kibworth, where I’m looking to contribute to the community. Throughout my career, I have been involved in high-level decision-making, including chairing a tripartite board for ethical governance in the oil, gas, and mining sectors and playing a key role in company law development.
My background includes strategic oversight, financial management, and policy development in various government roles. I am eager to apply this experience to support the vital work of Citizens Advice and make a positive impact locally.
Peter Symonds, Treasurer
I’ve spent 30 years working in a range of marketing and corporate strategy roles in companies such as BT and Lloyds TSB.
I now run my own market research company and have been living in Leicestershire for 7 years, being a trustee at Diversity Hub for much of that time.
I also design and manage the annual staff and volunteer survey for Citizens Advice LeicesterShire.
Narendra Waghela
I am a retired Graphic Designer, Senior Projects Manager and the Scheduling Manager of a large International Design, Marketing and Point of Sale Manufacturing Organisation based in Leicester, London, Paris, New York, Taiwan and Mainland China.
I’ve lived in Oadby, Leicestershire, and bring in over 44 years of management & board skills and commitments that voluntary organisations need.
John Walters
I’ve been a trustee of Citizens Advice for 6 years having previously been a trustee of the One Stop Shop in Lutterworth. I’m 47 years old and live with my wife and dog in Husbands Bosworth in South Leicestershire.
Currently, I work in Logistics for DHL, distributing medicines and medical devices primarily into the NHS on behalf of a number of customers and my role is managing new projects whether that be an upgrade to IT systems or the building of new sites.
Zalfa Feghali
Joining the Board of Trustees aligns with my academic expertise in vulnerability and citizenship, and my commitment to advancing social justice. In my current role at the University of Leicester, I actively contribute to gender equality and intersectional equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives alongside my teaching and research in contemporary literature.
I look forward to bringing this background to Citizens Advice to support the charity’s mission as it supports people navigating the multi-layered complexities of being in vulnerable situations.
Clare Culpin
Throughout my career as a Registered Nurse and senior NHS leader, I’ve been driven to improve healthcare. Whether leading teams or influencing policy, I believe in putting compassion first. Honesty, authenticity, and integrity are at the core of everything I do. I’m passionate about working together to empower others, helping them build resilience and grow, especially when facing challenges.
Sarah Humphreys
With 27 years as the founder and director of multiple businesses, my entrepreneurial background has been recognised with prestigious awards including a Women in Business Award. Currently working at the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, I focus on brand-led business strategy and development, skillfully translating strategic goals into actionable sales and marketing plans that foster sustainable, long-term success. My commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence drives me to support organisational growth and success in all endeavors.
I look forward to bringing this background to Citizens Advice Leicestershire to support the charity’s mission and vision and make a positive impact locally.