Our Trustees

Age UK Islington is run by and for local people in the borough.

We are led by a Board of Trustee Directors who are Trustees under charity legislation and Directors under company legislation. They are elected by members of the charity for terms of three years at our Annual General Meeting. The Board members are currently as follows:

Howard Sharman, Chair

Worked in business magazine publishing for 30 years as a journalist, editor, publisher and corporate manager.  Following an international development MSc at University College London has focused on consultancy work with charities, working through Eastside Primetimers.  An Islington resident for more than 35 years.

Clive Bowman, Treasurer

Clive has had a long and varied career working as a senior accountant or finance director both in South Africa and UK in both commerce and industry; owning his own printing businesses; acting as consultant to various businesses and more recently, Treasurer to Home Start Barnet and WPF Therapy.  As Treasurer, Clive has helped both charities with strategic thinking and planning.

Aisha Baker-Smith

A marketing communications professional with a background in digital engagement and product design and development. Aisha has worked for national and international non-governmental organisations for over 20 years, in a functional lead role for many of these. Resident of neighbouring Haringey where she is active in local issues and has held a variety of elected and unelected posts.

Chris Faint

A chartered accountant by training and current employee of the Bank of England. Chris is an Islington resident that brings experience in risk management, financial strategy and governance. Prior to joining Age UK Islington, Chris was treasurer at Age UK Brent.

Marcia McFarlane

Aisha Rehman

Local resident and career civil servant with experience in immigration, refugee resettlement and crime prevention. She has also has experience of volunteering in the UK and overseas.

Elisabeth Rochford

A Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability professional, Elisabeth currently leads the social impact work of a telecommunications company as part of their commitment to supporting people and the planet. Originally from Ireland, she is a local resident, with local volunteering experience and an academic background in Human Rights.

Joanie Speers

Joanie’s career comprises a mix of publishing and the voluntary sector (in which she received an MSc from Cass Business School). She brings her experience and knowledge of running, serving as trustee/chair, and volunteering for a wide range of charities. She has lived in Islington for over 40 years

Diane Lennan

A career employee and consultant within the Hospitality, Arts and Not-for-Profit sectors supporting business development and transformation. An MA in Employment Strategy underpinned by the broad knowledge gained as a director and senior executive with strategic, hands-on operational and people management responsibilities. She has experience as a Trustee and Chair for a range of charities.