Business Networking Group with leaders Sue Woodroofe and Richard Flint

Join us on Thursday 5 June from 6-8pm, for a special edition of GSAL’s Business Networking Group, featuring an insightful discussion on compassionate leadership with Sue Woodroofe, GSAL Principal, and Richard Flint, investor and board member. This will be one of Sue’s final public events before her retirement at the end of the academic year, following her nine-year tenure as GSAL’s Principal.

Hosted by Charlene Lyons, Vice-Chair of Governors at GSAL, the evening will explore how leadership rooted in empathy, vision and resilience drives success across different industries.

This is an invaluable opportunity to gain valuable perspectives, connect with professionals and celebrate Sue’s remarkable contribution to GSAL.

Tickets are free.

Speaker and host biographies

• Sue Woodroofe – GSAL Principal

With a 37-year career in education, Sue Woodroofe has led with vision, energy and empathy across a range of school environments. As Principal of GSAL, she has driven academic excellence, financial growth and major capital investments, including over £25 million in student-focused projects. Under her leadership, GSAL secured two £1 million bursary donations, earned EDI and environmental accreditations and received three prestigious Sunday Times school awards. Every decision Sue has made has been in the best interest of her pupils. Beyond GSAL, Sue has served as a governor, mentor and advocate for future leaders, continuing to shape the education sector. As she prepares for retirement, Sue remains committed to fostering strong relationships and compassionate leadership – a theme that has defined her career.

• Richard Flint – Investor & board member

Richard Flint is a seasoned leader in business growth and corporate strategy. As chief executive of Sky Betting & Gaming from 2006 to 2019, he scaled the company from 100 to 1,700 employees, led its £800m spin-out from Sky and oversaw its £3.4bn acquisition by The Stars Group. He later joined the board of Flutter Entertainment plc before stepping down in 2024. Now an investor and chair of high-growth companies, including Butternut Box and Seat Unique, Richard continues to drive innovation and leadership excellence. A Glassdoor Chief Executive of the Year (2018), he holds an engineering degree from Oxford and a master’s in public policy from Harvard.

• Charlene Lyons – Vice-Chair of Governors, GSAL

Charlene is a management consultant and founder of Lyons Consultancy, with extensive experience across business strategy, change management and governance. A former CEO of Black Sheep Brewery, she now works nationally across multiple industries, supporting businesses and public sector organisations, including charities and hospitals. As Vice-Chair of Governors at GSAL, Charlene chairs the External Relations and Fundraising Committees, serves on the Business, Audit & Risk Committee and is a director of GSAL Enterprises.