The Automate BEST team

Charlie joined Automate BEST in January 2024. This followed an extensive career across all aspects of education, including the organisation of a successful ESF project for NEETS in South London and work as an SEN specialist. Charlie’s passion for inclusion and equal opportunities aligns perfectly with Automate BEST’s mission.

Jingxi has joined the BEST team in June 2024. Her role is to help create social media content for the BEST club and to provide support to the BEST team. Jingxi (which means ‘surprise’ in Mandarin) is also a cheese connoisseur and likes trips out.

Matt has been working alongside Automate BEST since 2019. Together with our ever-popular virtual STEM days for Secondary Schools, he has led the organisation of our Factory for the Future programme. His work has been vital in connecting with thousands of primary-aged students all over the world. Matt is also an author and member of Spacefund.

Richard joined as one of the original members of the Automate BEST Board of Trustees in 2014. He is a Managing Director at Jenton International, a manufacturer and distributor of equipment to the packaging, printing and converting industries.

Ian also became one of the original members of the Automate BEST Board of Trustees in 2014. He is a Chartered Certified Accountant and the owner of Jardines Consulting, a specialist in accounting and taxation firm for individuals, healthcare professionals, and businesses.

John joined the Automate BEST Board of Trustees in 2017. He is a business consultant and former Managing Director of Newman Labelling Systems. He was also Director of the Processing and Packaging Machinery Association (PPMA) between 2000-2008; two years of which he was President.

Gary also joined the Automate BEST Board of Trustees in 2017. He is a mentor, leadership coach, and former Managing Director of Festo – a German multinational industrial control and automation company. He also founded E3 Leadership and Development, which helps SME leaders and leadership teams.

Tim joined the Automate BEST Board of Trustees in 2023. Now the Global Accounts Director at Domino UK, he served 14 years on the Board of Directors of PPMA; including 2 years as Chairman. Having started as a Field Service Engineer, he has developed a passion for helping others along similar pathways.