About Us
The businesses was started in 2014 by Frances Day – who also heads Marketing Doctor Ltd. Her original idea stemmed from needing a support network of other like-minded women business owners. She said, “Although friends and family mean well, they don’t have the experience and knowledge that other business owners have. Women not only have their own unique challenges with family and home life, and they’re also naturally nurturing and supportive. It was important for me to create an environment where they felt safe in the knowledge that they could share anything that they needed to.”
That’s how Bird Board was born.
Some think that the name Bird Board is somehow derogatory to women. It reflects exactly what we are; women at Board level and we don’t take ourselves too seriously.
Is Bird Board for you?
It’s not for everyone, and we do have an application process. It’s important to us that we have the right balance of members in each Board.
As of course we’re all busy business women, each meeting lasts for 2 hours with a defined structure. If you’d like to come along half an hour beforehand to get to know the other members, please feel free to do so.
The only way you can truly get a sense of how it benefits you is to come along. We have strong guidelines to help you make the most of every meeting.
Here are some of our members
South Leeds Friday
Stephanie Roper – The Wardrobe Angel
It is my passion to re-connect women with their innate sense of style by digging deep in their wardrobes, clearing out what no longer represents them and introducing brands and outfits which show who they are, what they do and where they are going. I call it my ‘joy’ not my ‘job’. I’m also a TV & Radio Presenter, Magazine Columnist and Creative Consultant.
MoreSouth Leeds Friday
Sarah Siddle – Robrook Press
Partner in a second generation print company. Revolutionised print in the face of adversity.
MoreSouth Leeds Friday
Marie Walsh – Consilia Legal
Set up and heads an all-female law practice in the centre of Leeds.
MoreSouth Leeds Friday
Keeley Edge - Key Appointments
Exceptional Recruitment Specialist helping companies to both hire the best talent and reduce recruitment costs.
MoreSouth Leeds Friday
Claire Howarth - Novis & Co
Managing Director, Novis & Co Chartered Accountants. Claire believes that all clients should enjoy a solid reliable service and strives to ensure client satisfaction and clarity in her dealings. Fellow of the ICAEW and ACCA. She is also a Chartered Tax Advisor.
MoreHarrogate Tuesday
Cathy Burns - Your Story
Partner in social media and web design business with board level experience in media and marketing
MoreNorth Leeds Monday
Catherine Casey -Rockwood Financial Solutions
Catherine heads the company and her aspiration is to grow her reputable, people focused, financial advisory firm into a nationally recognised brand.
MoreManchester Centre
Tanya Haigh - The Luxury Travel Lounge c/o TLTL Ltd
A group of travel businesses, offering a wide range of travel products at the best prices to clients, and supplying industry training to independent agents. Member companies include JNT Destinations (award winning agent) & World Class Escapes (specialists in accommodation with VIP service). All staff working at TLTL are well travelled business ladies, which means they “sell from experience, not a brochure” and can assist clients with cost savings.
MoreSouth Leeds Friday
Olga Wormald - Now Consultancy
An experienced Change Director that specialises in working with companies to bring their strategic plans to life.
Wakefield
Anna McManus - AM Business Support
Business Consultant working with women on operational and strategic areas of their business. Passionate about ensuring impartial and objective support.
MoreSouth Leeds Wednesday
Jenny Oakenfull - Active Eat
A Nutritional Therapist and Dru Yoga teacher, speciaising in helping people to improve their energy levels and health through nutrition and yoga based on my experience of living with ME.
MorePontefract
Tina Brown - Alternative Partnerships
Alternative Partnership offers support for both individuals and companies with a journey of experiential training that will change the way you think, act and work in your personal and business life. You’ll also gain qualifications as you learn.
MoreLeeds City Centre
Lindsay Dixon
Consultant Solicitor helping individuals and businesses to resolve their business disputes.
Wakefield
Ali Carruthers-Illingworth - Purple Pebble People
Passionate about unlocking your potential. An expert in personal and organisational development and change.
MoreSouth Leeds Wednesday
Lindsay Cameron - The Next Steps
Passionate social entrepreneur & keynote speaker. Inspiring mature people facing life change to reinvent themselves and enjoy the next steps of their lives as the gift it is – an exciting time full of possibilities.
Bradford
Linda Knowles - LK Therapy
Linda is a qualified Hypnotherapist, NLP Master practitioner, Life Coach and Reiki level 3 master. Her therapy provides you with a confidential, supportive and professional service and can cater for individual one to one sessions and house parties.
MoreHarrogate Tuesday
Sarah Bowman - Harrogate Ladies' College
We are a girls only school where we aim to give our pupils the freedom and the confidence to be themselves; to know who they are and to take on the world in their own terms.
MoreWakefield
Debbie Mactaggart - Gunnercooke
Business Lawyer and Virtual Legal Counsel – acting as a trusted adviser at a fixed fee resolving employment and business disputes for SMEs.
MoreDoncaster
Mary Duggan - Duggan Project Management Ltd
Mary is passionate about the difference creativity can make to your life and your work. She coaches individuals and teams who want to tap into their creativity to make real change. As ContraryMary Designs, she also creates unique sterling silver jewellery.
MoreSouth Leeds Wednesday
Paula Atherill - Creative Analysis
Always looking for ways to improve, streamline, optimise and get smarter. Working together she’ll help to put the right technology and processes in place. Whether that's being location independent and travelling, working around your family or growing a local or remote team. It's all possible!
MoreSouth Leeds Wednesday
Amanda Coutanche-Hall - AHR Business Consultancy Ltd
MD of a HR Consultancy offering affordable, personable on-hand support and services for SME's in Yorkshire and beyond. Offering as much support as you need.
South Leeds Wednesday
Kate Richardson - Martin & Co Estate Agents
Franchise owner of Martin & Co Leeds City and Roundhay - Residential lettings and sales
MoreSouth Leeds Friday
Amanda Oswald - Pain Care Clinic
Pain Care Clinic offers effective treatment of chronic pain conditions through clinical massage and myofascial release. Clinics located in Leeds and London
MoreNorth Leeds Monday
Kati Tyler -Tropic
Having escaped from the corporate world, now a full-time Tropic Executive for this unique fast growing social sales company, backed by Lord Sugar, selling 100% naturally-derived skin care and working with my team members to build the businesses they want to have.
MoreHarrogate Tuesday
Ruth Brady - Facial Aesthetics Harewood
Dental surgeon for 35 years. After extensive training, now specialises in advanced facial aesthetics at an award winning practice at Harewood, Leeds.
MoreHarrogate Tuesday
Fiona MacPherson - Support4Success
Award winning Virtual Assistant providing a range of cost effective business support services.
MoreSheffield
Linda Spencer - Professional Energy Purchasing Ltd
Providing professional brokerage services for gas /electricity and water in the commercial market. I am passionate about delivering the best personal service to our customers.
MorePontefract
Delia Crofts-Turnbull
A well-established successful family solicitor, a specialist in collaborative law and an invaluable member of dovetail who strives to help people beyond the usual expectations.
MoreSheffield
Jenny Whitehouse - Tilney
Financial Planner and Wealth Manager, working with individuals and businesses to achieve their financial and personal goals. From retirement planning and succession planning to keyperson cover and long term care planning.
MoreSkipton
Lyn Easton - LyncHR
Lyn's HR experience has led to a deep understanding of practical common sense approaches. Finding solutions to assist Human Resource Practitioners and Business Leaders
MoreYork
Faye Elizabeth Alexander - Alexander Events and Production Management
International Events Manager who has worked in the industry for many years organising national and international events; offering every relative service from sourcing meeting rooms and venue finding, right through to large conferences and events, gala dinners, meetings, exhibitions, corporate away-days, birthday parties and company incentive programmes.
South Leeds Wednesday
Clancy Walker - Story
Copywriter, communications and PR consultant. Creative writer, performer and presenter.
MoreHarrogate Friday
Liz Wild - McInroy & Wood Ltd
Liz launched the Harrogate office for McInroy & Wood in 2016 to serve clients in the North of England. McInroy & Wood is an independent investment management firm focused on private clients who are looking for personal attention and a relatively conservative approach that preserves and grows their wealth over time.
MoreSouth Leeds Wednesday
Kaye Willis - Partner at Williams & Co Solicitors
Partner in a solicitors. Focusing on providing high quality legal services for individuals and businesses.
MoreSheffield
Gemma Daniels - Hydra Creative Ltd
Director of multi award-winning digital agency – specialising in bespoke CRM systems, targeted web design and build, video and in-house SEO.
MoreSheffield
Rachel Waddington - Whet Wellbeing
A specialist in blended coaching and psychotherapy, I work with individuals and organisations across Yorkshire to develop authenticity and immense flourishing.
MoreSouth Leeds Friday
Lynda Fenton - Empact
Translates legal to layman language. Foremost adviser on handling redundancy.
MoreSkipton
Hannah Young - Revive Your Space
Professional Organiser specialising in working with clients in their home to declutter, streamline and organise their possessions and daily schedule, from wardrobe, to home office and photo collections. Proud member of the Association of Professional Organisers and Declutterers.
MoreHarrogate Tuesday
Rachel Spencer-Robb - LCF Law
Nationally recognised lawyer in the field of family law (Chambers & Partners 2017) - "articulate and persuasive in meetings, she is a good listener." Skilled and unwavering support for clients going through separation or divorce or looking to preserve assets at the outset of new relationships.
MoreWetherby
Zoe Ziegler - Financial Planner
Zoe provides friendly face to face advice and thorough Financial Planning. Taking the stress out of Pensions, Investments, Protection & Mortgages.
MoreWetherby
Sharon Dawson - Technical Stage Services
Co-owner of Technical Stage Services, helping people with the technical side of their events to create 'wow' moments
MoreWetherby
Elaine Wilson - The Rebalance Foundation
Therapist, author, founder of The Rebalance Foundation: the nutrition and lifestyle charity on a mission to help people enjoy their lives unhindered by diet-related chronic disease.
MoreWetherby
Rachel Proctor - Opportunity Marketing
A marketing expert who helps businesses grow and reach their potential by developing a marketing strategy and implementing it. I want businesses to avoid jumping into marketing activity without understanding why they are doing it and what they are trying to achieve. I have a range of fixed priced packages for all budgets!
MoreSouth Leeds Friday
Melody Reed - Live Band Entertainment
Professional singer, owner of LiveBand Entertainment and Cheries Melody - inspiring voices. (Vocal coaching school aka Turn up the Talent, based in Guiseley)
MoreNorth Leeds Monday
Alison Haw - Funk It Up Clothing
Inspired by designers such as Vivienne Westwood and All Saints. Its uniqueness is that it allows you to enjoy retail therapy in the comfort of your own home or workplace
MoreHuddersfield Halifax
Jacqui Laycock - Headingley Experience
An experienced Senior Sales & Marketing Manager at Headingley Experience, the Conference and Events department at Headingley Carnegie Stadium.
Harrogate Tuesday
Vanessa Johnson - Urban Metal Works
Designer & manufacturer of bespoke industrial & contemporary furniture. Handcrafting each individual piece in our West Yorkshire workshop to our impeccable award winning customer service.
MoreSouth Leeds Wednesday
Beverley Halligan - Beverley's Bouquets
Talented florist creating beautiful, stunning arrangements to make any occasion extra special.
MoreSheffield
Clare Shepherd - YourNewLifePlan
Nutritional Therapist, Health Coach & Author. Founder & Director of YourNewLifePlan Ltd helping busy ladies naturally transition through the menopause years feeling in control, confident and free to live the life they choose.
MoreWakefield
Helen Lockwood
Helen has a proven track record in an FMCG environment, with a strong background in leading, developing, growing, and sustaining a customer focused service approach. Her career has taken her now to providing interim services to companies that have a requirement for people management support.
South Leeds Friday
Lesley O'Brien - Freightlink Europe
Award winning Transport professional. Owner of haulage company Freightlink Europe and training and consultancy company Freight Train. Main Board Director at the Road Haulage Association (RHA), and founder member of She’s RHA, promoting diversity in transport.
MoreHuddersfield Halifax
Debbie Palmer - Confidence Culture
Debbie is a Personal & Executive Coach supporting people with challenge, chance and choices. If you’re a Bird Board member you know everyone can benefit from objective support at some time. Take your Bird Board Aha! moments into a one to one session and explore them further.
MoreLeeds City Centre
Ann Page - Yorkshire Courses for Lawyers
Motivational Trainer & Coach (Top 100 lawyer) has trained nearly 7000 lawyers since 2003 on leadership and management. Currently enabling Yorkshire lawyers to hone their business skills to serve more clients profitably.
MoreHarrogate Tuesday
Liz Dean
An experienced board director with a specialism in HR. She has a wealth of experience in organizational and behavioural change, developing strategy and coaching and mentoring. She has held non-executive positions and is currently a Governor at the NHS Foundation Trust in Harrogate.
Huddersfield Halifax
Pavani Ishaya - The Bright Path
As a successful business woman, Pavani knows what stress is and what it can do to us if we choose to let it. She found the Ishayas’ Ascension, a simple and effective meditation technique which literally saved her life. Living with more balance, joy, peace and happiness from a quiet mind.
MoreSkipton
Nicole Ballantyne - Jumpstart
Nicole is the Business Development Manager for Jumpstart, in the Yorkshire & Humber region. Jumpstart is a Science & Technology company. Our scientists and engineers enable a wide variety of software, engineering and manufacturing companies to claim R&D tax relief.
MoreManchester Centre
Hazel Potts - Jobline Recruitment
Jobline is a family run business and we pride ourselves on giving a personal service to all our clients taking no shortcuts on Quality of Service. Working closely with our clients and candidates to focus on their individual needs is what we do best.
MoreWetherby
Sheralee Feldman - IDentilid Scancode Lifesavers
Sheralee Feldman Director of IDentilid Scancode Lifesavers, where my aim is to aid first responders to help save your life or your loved ones in an emergency. Stay safe!
MoreDoncaster
Diane Parker - Atherton Godfrey Solicitors
I am the Head of Personal Injury at Atherton Godfrey Solicitors in Doncaster. As well as being nationally recognised for our work on behalf of injured people, we are able to offer advice in all areas of law including employment, company and commercial.
MoreDoncaster
Fiona Hoggarth - Enterprise Accountancy
Senior Accountant in an innovative accountancy firm that supports its clients in achieving their dreams.
MoreNorth Leeds Monday
Paula Chellingworth - Equinox
Business Developer for Equinox, an intellectual property case management system - Passionate about helping IP professionals time and costs around the world.
MoreSkipton
Elaine Davies - Elaine Davies Wealth
Banking & Wealth Specialist to business owners and private clients. My clients describe me as the 'go to' person for all their financial requirements. With over 25 years’ experience in banking and financial services I focus on saving them both time and money.
Skipton
Jane Ellison-Bates - Manifest Marketing
Jane Ellison-Bates has worked in media since 1984. Developing integrated marketing strategies and effective PR campaigns, her enthusiasm is infectious and forms the bedrock for long-lasting client relationships. She was shortlisted for the 2015 national Forward Ladies Women in Business Awards.
MoreSkipton
Judith Marples - JMH Aspirations
As a specialist in change management and stress awareness I help people and businesses to identify and achieve their goals, enabling their ultimate success, believing that no one size fits all, if we can dream it we can achieve it.
MoreSouth Leeds Wednesday
Tamara Hall - Molescroft Farm
Managing Director of an award winning arable farm with numerous diversifications, including let offices, community allotments and a children’s nursery. 10% of the farm is managed primarily for wildlife and we use a wide range of precision farming methods.
MoreYork
Camilla Parsonage - Moles Farm Childrens Nursery
Director of exciting new 60-place children’s nursery based on the family farm, opening September 2017. Camilla also helps her sister run the diverse farm business, and runs a successful equestrian enterprise with her husband, Parsonage Equestrian.
MoreSouth Leeds Friday
Julie Gelder - Jewel Safety Solutions Ltd
Health and Safety consultant with a smile. Only solutions, never problems.
MoreNorth Leeds Monday
Rachelle Atkin - The Yorkshire Marketing Company
My passion in life is to help businesses look and sound amazing, by using the right images, words and tools. Shop local, source local is my mantra, so you know that everything we do is lovingly created in Yorkshire, just for you!
MorePontefract
Claire Cox - Bailey Hunter Ltd
A qualified Solicitor with extensive legal recruitment experience. Claire set up Bailey Hunter Ltd in 2008 and works with law firms across Yorkshire and the North East, assisting them with their recruitment needs at all levels; Solicitors, Paralegals, Legal Secretaries, Receptionists etc.
MorePontefract
Susan D Thomas MBE MCIPD
Friendly, hands on people person offering a range of support services with a HR specialism also including internal communications, community and customers. A proven track record with corporate and family businesses, Susan now offers her broad experience to support SMEs with one off needs, ongoing operational HR or larger projects. A keen focus on keeping things simple and in line with the business culture and values.
Leeds City Centre
Philippa Webster - Interpersonnel (HR) Ltd
HR consultancy offering bespoke solutions for clients.
MorePontefract
Tracey Train - R Collins & Co
Tracey is a highly professional Insurance Broker who has worked in the industry for 30 years and owned her own business for 2 years. She specialises in all commercial insurance including Home and Travel Insurance.
MoreDoncaster
Sue Bach - Sue Bach Associates Ltd
Wetherby
Jill Wright - Kirk Newsholme Chartered Accountants & Business Advisors
Making the difference to my clients and helping to resolve issues causing them concern. Proud that my clients always feel happy to call me and even if I cannot help directly, that I can liaise with my other professional contacts to get them the support they need.
MoreBradford
Sarah Oddy - Oddy Associates
Bradford
Amber Wignell - Your Destination Ltd
Business Owner - Independent Travel Company
Leeds City Centre
Louise Lowe - Denby Professionals
Owner of a flexible and professional recruitment company for permanent vacancies.
MorePontefract
Louise Clayton - Visible Thoughts
Helping businesses obtain growth through purposeful graphic design, web design and branding.
MoreSouth Leeds Wednesday
Heather Copley - Farmer Copleys Ltd
Joint business owner/director of Farmer Copleys award winning farm shop, Moo Café and Beast Restaurant.
MorePontefract
Therese Hunter - Castle Counselling
A counsellor specialising in helping adults, and young people towards their first steps to success.
Bradford
Verity English - Verity English Illustrative Design
Graphic designer with an illustrative touch. With a big passion for working with local and national non profits, I’ve also got the knowledge to work with SME’s who need to refresh and revitalise their branding. From lovely logo’s, branded brochures, clever websites that even Google will notice, I create design which always stand out, grabs attention and makes a difference!
MoreSkipton
Sally Criddle - Headway Recruitment
Headway Recruitment is a West Yorkshire based recruitment agency with offices in Leeds City Centre and Saltaire, Bradford. Established in 1980 with an excellent reputation for recruiting office, engineering and management staff for temporary, permanent and contract roles throughout West Yorkshire. We offer a quality recruitment service tailored to meet the needs of our clients and candidates. We have a dedicated, experienced and long serving team of consultants with a friendly, honest approach making us stand out from the crowd. We offer a confidential and reliable service.
MoreHuddersfield Halifax
Clare Douglas Johnson - Adoofa Ltd
Managing Director & Digital Consultant. Working in the Internet & IT industry for over 25 years. I love working with you to create and develop your brand and digital presence, and then continue to provide ongoing support to see your business flourish. I see myself as part of your team and as such you become part of the Adoofa family too. Together we can make a difference! I can help with your brand, website, e-commerce, digital marketing, social media, SEO, POS systems and business IT systems.
MoreYork
Kirsten Sheppard - Harrowells Solicitors
Kirsten is a highly experienced and very pragmatic commercial property solicitor who is passionate about helping businesses succeed. She also believes very strongly in the idea of professionals and business people giving something back to the local communities they serve through charitable and other voluntary work.
MoreLeeds City Centre
Marianne McWilliams - JLT Group
An experienced insurance broker specialising in risk management and risk transfer solutions for professional services firms. By getting to know and understand my clients and their businesses I am able to provide tailored insurance solutions.
MoreBradford
Joanna Pease - Hope Park Business Centre
Commercial Manager for Hope Park Business Centres - More than for walls.
MoreLeeds City Centre
Suzanne Shenderey - Suzanne Shenderey Hypnotherapy
Specialist in hypnotherapy and mindfulness who creates a safe, non-judgmental space, in which to empower people to move forward with confidence.
MoreLeeds City Centre
Jennifer Evans - Belong
Award winning brand and wellbeing consultant: helping business work well.
MorePontefract
Sarah Buckley - Get Healthy, Stay Healthy
Sarah is an award winning nurse who is passionate about doing all she can to help herself & others extend their healthy lifespans - so we can all live to delight in seeing our grandchildren grow up…
MoreManchester Centre
Faith Staniforth - Dovestone Property Ltd
Huddersfield Halifax
Maureen Connor - Snug Aromatics
I am a qualified aromatherapist and perfumer and make high quality natural candles and body and bath products, my business name is Snug Aromatics.
MoreHarrogate Friday
Rhiannon Bates - The Risk Factor
MD of ethical insurance brokerage, specialising in public sector risks.
MoreWakefield
Julie Ramsey - Well Leathered
Owner and Founder of Well Leathered, established 2017. Trademarked August 2017. I create and handcraft handbags, purses, card wallets and dog collars, to name a few.
MoreManchester Centre
Christine Spencer - Graduate Dawn
Christine is an experienced individual who develops individuals and graduates to their full potential. Experienced and passionate about leadership development and customer service, she strives to make you the best leader you can be along with the key skills to achieve this.
MoreSouth Leeds Wednesday
Diane Burke - White Rose Wills & Conveyancing
A kind and caring solicitor. Helping people one will at a time!
MoreHarrogate Friday
Ros Collins - Hallmark
Senior Sales and Category professional. Specialising in long term strategic growth and relationship management, unlocking new markets and talent development.
MoreHarrogate Friday
Ali Williams - The Strength Unit
Gym owner, health and wellness coach, fitness coach.
MoreWakefield
Emma Cornell - Taylor Bracewell
Head of Dispute Resolution, having qualified as a solicitor in 2004. Extensive and varied experience in the field of litigation.
MoreSouth Leeds Wednesday
Abigail Barker - A Creative Space
Practising artist and art facilitator delivering art and crafts sessions within care and residential homes and retirement accommodation. I also offer a range of pre-designed and bespoke “Art For Wellbeing” packages for corporate clients.
North Leeds Monday
Alison Shaw - Breast Cancer Haven
Corporate Fundraiser looking to develop cancer awareness, support and education within the workplace.
MoreBradford
Harjit Rait - LCF Law
Dynamic and passionate divorce and family lawyer - driven to achieve the best for her clients and further raise the profile of LCF Law.
MoreHarrogate Friday
Nicole Brook - Nicole Brook Counselling and Psychotherapy
Experienced, approachable counsellor and psychotherapist practising in Harrogate.
MoreLeeds City Centre
Sue O'Donnell - M.R. Financial Services
Experienced Independent Financial Adviser, also accredited to advise on matters related to later life.
MoreHuddersfield Halifax
Kelly Plahay - Selbie Opticians
Local independant opticians - providing first class professional eyecare!
MoreHuddersfield Halifax
Helen Thornton - Charlesworth Group
Expereinced entrepreneur focused on providing business support services and investment for growing businesses in the Kirklees area.
MoreStockport
Sue Souter - Souter PR
Director of Creative PR and Social Media firm. Can-do, friendly and fun!
MoreHarrogate Tuesday
Lisa Swaine - Tractor Creative / Betty Hula
Partner in a graphic design/photography company, plus a Skincare brand to throw into the mix
MoreYOUR FIRST VISIT
You’re welcome to come and try out a Board Meeting for the first time to understand exactly how it works.
If you’re interested, please email admin@birdboard.co.uk or phone 07765 060043
We charge £20 for your first visit. You’ll be asked to sign a Confidentially Agreement before you attend.