Jim Gardner

Jim Gardner has extensive work experience in various leadership roles. Jim most recently served as the Director of People at Royal Voluntary Service since April 2022. Prior to that, they were the Chief Executive of the University of Southampton Students' Union from February 2020 to April 2022. Jim also held the position of Chief Executive at Kent Union, a multi-dimensional charity, from June 2001 to December 2020. Jim has served as a Trustee at the National Union of Students (UK) from August 2013 to July 2017 and at Porchlight (charity) from September 2013 to December 2014. Jim has also held interim executive roles at Christ Church Students' Union, KCLSU, and Skills Effect. Additionally, they have served as Chair of the Board at Dame Janet Primary Academy and as a member of the MBA Advisory Board at Kent Business School.

Jim Gardner earned a BA degree in Politics and History from the University of Southampton, graduating in 1995. Jim then pursued a Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Development from Middlesex University, completing it in 1997. Later, from 2002 to 2005, they obtained an MBA with a specialization in Strategic Management from the University of Kent.