Ahead Partnership
strengthens board with
two strategic appointments

03 Jun, 26

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Ahead Partnership has appointed Caroline Harrison and Emily Large to its Board of Directors, reinforcing the social value specialist’s leadership as it continues to expand programmes and partnerships across the UK.

Founded over 20 years ago by Stephanie Burras CBE, Ahead Partnership has grown from a small Leeds based initiative into a national organisation with a network of more than 50 team members, working with employers, educators and public sector leaders to improve social mobility.

The appointments come following a series of major programme wins and strategic partnership announcements. Most recently, this included the launch of a pioneering programme with Cockburn Multi-Academy Trust to promote early intervention among rising numbers of young people who are Not in Employment, Education or Training (NEET).

Caroline Harrison joins the board with over three decades of senior leadership experience in the third sector, bringing extensive expertise in charity governance, partnership development and large‑scale community programmes.

Commenting on her appointment, Caroline Harrison said: “The mission, vision and values of Ahead Partnership are a reflection of everything I stand for and believe in. We have a shared commitment to building a better future for everyone, whether in schools, business or in communities, by sharing knowledge and creating opportunities. I’m looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together.”

Caroline and Emily both bring outstanding experience, deep personal commitment and a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing young people today. Their insight will be invaluable as we strengthen our partnerships, increase our reach and continue to support even more young people to build confident, ambitious futures.

Stephanie Burras CBE, Founder and Chief Executive at Ahead Partnership

Currently Finance Director at Sumo, Emily Large trained with PwC before progressing into senior finance roles. As a parent of two daughters and someone from a working‑class background, she brings both professional insight and lived experience to the organisation’s mission.

Speaking about her appointment, Emily Large said: “I’m passionate about Ahead Partnership’s work around social mobility and giving young people the tools and insight they need to succeed in their careers. The organisation delivers work that is genuinely transformative for young people and communities, and I’m really looking forward to supporting its continued journey.”

Welcoming both appointments, Stephanie Burras CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of Ahead Partnership, said: “Caroline and Emily both bring outstanding experience, deep personal commitment and a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing young people today. Their insight will be invaluable as we strengthen our partnerships, increase our reach and continue to support even more young people to build confident, ambitious futures.

“I am delighted to welcome them both to the Board and look forward to working closely with them as we continue to grow our impact and ensure that we can support young people to face their futures with confidence for years to come.”

Ahead Partnership works with clients including Netcompany, Federated Hermes MEPC, Landsec, Arcadis, West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA), and Extra MSA, to develop bespoke employability programmes aimed at connecting young people to the opportunities in their local areas.

To find out more about Ahead Partnership, visit: https://www.aheadpartnership.org.uk/