Meet the Team - ChallengingMnd

Alex Gibson

Founder & Chairman

MND Warrior and founder, Alex had the vision of ensuring those diagnosed with the disease can create lifelong memories for them and their families.

Alex continues to inspire not just those living with MND, but also all our supporters, with the incredible challenges he sets himself. His motivational speeches in schools, clubs, and corporates – have everyone walking out of the talk two inches taller and full of self-belief!

Liane Iles

Chief Executive

Liane has just joined us (March 2022) and comes from the Charity/Social care sector but has 25 years of commercial experience too.

She is passionate about making a difference to the lives of vulnerable adults and their family carers and is a talented networker/innovator who will guide the charity into new areas of support by listening to what the MND communities often changing needs are and implementing them with the backing of the Trustees.

Andy Long

Patron

Ex-England rugby union player Andy is not a back-seat Patron. So far, he has joined Alex on the Double-Marathon walk and was also part of the World Record Pedalo team, travelling 125 miles down the River Thames.

A constant source of great advice and huge passion for our charity. We couldn’t wish for a better Patron.

Paul Everitt

Trustee

Taking full responsibility for the mess and carnage of the Mud Run, Paul takes a lead role in ensuring our events are well organised but most importantly, that they are great fun for all those taking part and supporting our cause!

Tarz Shoker

Trustee

Tarzem has just joined us (March 2022) and he will bring his 25 years of business and marketing experience to the charity. Tarzem excels in the areas such as brand management, digital marketing, strategic management, project management and partnership working.

Jane Watson

Trustee

Jane joined the trustees in April 2020 and is a valuable member of the team. Whenever the numbers need to be crunched we can be sure Jane will be there to keep the books straight, and also provide fantastic support during the challenges.

John Featherstone

Design & Publicity

John has freely volunteered his incredible graphic design skills and imagination to the charity from day one! An integral part of the team, he has also run a half-marathon; climbed a mountain; and abseiled off the Orbit all in aid of the charity. Although he will say his biggest challenge is always coming up with amazing artwork on a “we need it yesterday” deadline!

Jo Macklin

Head of Communications

Jo joined the team having been inspired by Alex’s story and our vision to create lifelong memories for people and loved ones living with MND. She ensures we are shouting from the rooftops to make this happen for as many people as possible and has been responsible for some incredible nationwide media coverage. With 20 years’ experience Jo has become an invaluable cog in our machine.

Jason Gibson

Head of Business

Alex’s elder brother Jason plays a key role within the charity by sourcing valuable sponsorship for events, whilst at the same time being our leading light in the city raising awareness of our charity and motor neurone disease.
With his constant new ideas and support, he’s a great person to have in our team, so if you are interested in your company becoming a valued partner, Jason’s the man to speak to.