John is CEO and Co-founder of The Work-wise Foundation, a Charity established in 2011 with support from employers in the Sheffield City Region. It’s purpose to raise awareness amongst young people and those who influence them around career opportunities in STEM (science, technology, engineering and manufacturing) and help inspire and better prepare them for employment and adult life.

Helping create a pipeline of job ready young people to meet industry needs The Work-wise Foundation has supported over 100,000 young people to date. John also Chairs the Get up to Speed with STEM Steering Group who deliver this, the largest annual STEM showcase event in the region.

John’s previous roles have included Training Manager at BT plc, Commercial Manager at Sheffield Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Partnership and Regeneration Director for Y&H at national CSR Charity Business in the Community.

Passionate about supporting all young people John and the team at Work-wise have a particular focus on demonstrating how a career in the sector is accessible to all regardless of gender, ethnicity or background.