Emma Gray
Emma Gray has over 22 years in School Business Leadership in maintained schools, single academy trusts and multi academy trusts, with experience across all phases from 2-18. As a DfE accredited School Resource Management Advisor (SRMA), Emma’s focus on finance has enabled her to support many schools in managing their budgets and planning deficit recovery. She secured over £6million of additional capital funding for her own trust, has recruited and developed many operations staff, and is a massive advocate for the importance of the role of the School Business Manager.
Emma has built up a wide network, through writing, blogging and supporting colleagues on social media platforms. She is a Fellow of the Institute of School Business Leaders and holds an MBA from Warwick University.
Helen Burge
Helen brings over 25 years of experience in operations and strategic management across the education sector. She is a Fellow and Trustee of the Institute of School Business Leadership (ISBL) and holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership. Passionate about sustainability, Helen co-founded the UK Schools Sustainability Network (UKSSN) Operations Group, where she leads initiatives that drive meaningful, long-term change.
Her work spans private schools, maintained schools, and multi-academy trusts, supporting all age phases from 2-18. Helen is known for her practical, strategic approach, empowering school leaders with the tools, insight, and confidence they need to lead successful sustainability and operational improvements.
Helen founded Buoyant Impact to help organisations embed sustainability and resource efficiency into their core practices. Through consultancy, training, and coaching, she supports schools in building resilient, eco-conscious operations that positively impact both pupils and the planet.
To connect with Helen or find out more, visit www.buoyantimpact.co.uk. Whether you’re starting out, reinvigorating, or refining your sustainability strategy, she’s here to help.
Johanna Phillips
Jo is a qualified Chartered Management Accountant with 28 years of public sector experience spanning the NHS, local government, and the education sector—including higher, secondary, and primary education.
Throughout her career, Johanna has led the management of complex budgets, successfully secured capital funding, and delivered high-impact projects. She brings extensive expertise in risk management—developing and reviewing robust strategies—as well as in leading staffing restructures with a people-centred approach.
Jo is passionate about empowering individuals and teams, enabling them to realise their potential while driving operational and financial effectiveness across organisations.
