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Connect Reading‘s award winning team

The Connect Reading Team has evolved over the last 5 years. Our small but mighty team are quick and efficient, as well as super friendly! We’re also Pride of Reading’s current Team of the Year.

For our campaigns, we sometimes work with specific partners (like the wonderful Archie Quinto!) to help with the workloads, so you might see their faces on and off through the year!

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Meet the team!

Lorraine Briffitt

CEO (part time)

Lorraine has been in Reading for over 20 years, working in roles ranging from supporting complex client groups to directing and managing teams or projects. At Connect Reading, she brings her network of relationships and connections (plus her cross-sector perspective and infectious enthusiasm!) to further build Connect’s positive impact.

In addition to running Connect Reading, she is Chair of Trustees for a national grant-making charity, a consultant for the national social value agency (Samtaler) and Founding Director of Libera Voce. She’s also finishing her Level 7 Leadership & Management course this summer.

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Amy Celino-Potter

Central Services Manager (part time)

Amy is the hive mind and central connector within our charity. She is often the first point of contact for people. Everyone is always impressed with her speedy and warm responses. Having joined us in September 2024, we often wonder how we survived without an Amy in our lives!

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Helen Bligh

Events & Funding Manager (part time)

Helen joined the team in August, picking up some of the member relationships that Grace previously oversaw. She brings a wealth of knowledge and contacts from the charity and education sector, as well as marketing and events. You’ll see her at many of our events, expanding Connect’s presence in the town (and sometimes subbing for Lorraine!).

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Our Board of Trustees

Jaclyn Nicole Le Grand
Dr Rodrigo Perez Vega
Dannii Hinds
Cecilia Maclaren
Graham Lunt

Graham joined the Board in January 2025.

John Pickford
Raimonda Richardson

 

We’re recruiting!

A view from our Board…