Claire founded Realise HR 4 years ago after a very successful HR career over a variety of sectors. Claire started her career with the Royal Bank of Scotland in Edinburgh then progressed to HR management of small teams within global businesses before moving into HR Director roles where she focused on strategic people planning and building competent teams to support company growth. She has a passion for organisational effectiveness and the part people play in it. Claire’s superpowers include Transformation and change, People experience, HR Technology, Engagement and Company culture. To relax at the weekend Claire loves to travel and enjoys some good food.

Dave joined Claire at Realise in 2022 to help deliver the growth ambitions of the company and brings a wealth of operational excellence and leadership experience to the business. Dave’s leadership career started at Uniq plc where he led a large operational team before running his own property maintenance company. Dave’s superpowers are making sure that the right people and skills within the team are assigned the right client projects, and developing all the back office operational requirements to run a business in 2022. At the weekend your will find Dave running a few miles and enjoying a bit of DIY.

Martin has 10+ years of recruitment experience working for landmark businesses across Cumbria. During this time, he has supported people in our communities with their careers, ambitions and job search. He is passionate about helping people uncover new opportunities and connecting them with their next role. Martin’s superpowers include recruitment, communication and providing great experiences for clients and candidates alike. At the weekend, you’ll find Martin spending quality time with the family and indulging in a glass of wine (or three!).

Helen has worked in workforce development and HR for 17 years. Helen’s passion is getting the best out of people and making sure they meet their true potential. Helen’s superpowers are diversity and inclusion and her ability to create a safe and fun atmosphere. Helen loves a nice gin on the weekend and entertaining guests with her hilarious stories and fantastic
cocktails.

Ellie brings 8 years of recruitment experience, having supported UK and international student recruitment across a wide range of institutions. She’s passionate about people, connection and helping others unlock growth – whether that’s individuals progressing in their careers or businesses building high-performing teams. Known for her warm, consultative approach and natural ability to build trust, Ellie brings energy, insight, and a genuine curiosity to every brief. When she’s not connecting people and opportunities, you’ll find Ellie chasing after her young son Ollie or planning her next family adventure.

Hannah has been in marketing for over 5 years and joined Realise in 2022. Hannah started her career with a reputable property firm where she gained her experience in her marketing. Hannah’s superpowers include making sure our brand is always at the forefront of peoples minds and being our social media guru. At the weekend you will find Hannah on a walk with her Dachshund Dumbo or out with friends drinking cocktails

An Equity, Diversity & Inclusion specialist with a background in Learning & Development. Jude has a multi-sector experience and has worked with both FTSE 250 and SME companies to implement Equity, Diversity and Inclusion strategies. Jude has shaped the strategy for ED&I in both O2 and AO taking them from a legislative ED&I narrative to leading on the topic within their sector.

Lorraine has 30+ years in system development and support under her belt. Lorraine also joined has been part of her family business where she was responsible for HR, Finance, business legislation and IT for our 25 staff. Lorraine’s superpowers include creating policies, GDPR, delivering training and of course she is an IT superstar. Lorraine loves walking and exploring the lovely scenery of Cumbria.

Jo is a senior HR consultant specialising in organisational design, culture transformation and leadership effectiveness. With a career spanning retail, logistics, distribution, private healthcare and professional services, she brings deep expertise in both growth and restructuring environments, working across multi-country operations. CIPD Level 5 qualified and a certified Insights Discovery Practitioner, Joanne combines strategic HR leadership with a pragmatic, people-centred approach. She is passionate about choosing humanity first, believing that policy without empathy is just paperwork, a philosophy that underpins her coaching style and leadership partnerships.

Kate is a seasoned HR leader with extensive experience across diverse industries including construction, communications, travel and healthcare. She has built her career within renowned organisations such as Skanska, O2, and EasyJet, where she has led specialist HR teams focused on strategic talent management, from early careers to executive development. Her strong strategic and commercial acumen has propelled her into key leadership roles, including Head of HR Partnering and Operations. Kate is known for delivering impactful change and transformation programmes and is deeply driven by a commitment to making a meaningful difference for both organisations and their people.

Max is our office apprentice, and a very good one at that. Max started his journey 6 years ago and has come on leaps and bounds. Max specialises in taking long breaks whilst on his walks, eating treats and chief office cuddler.