Helen joined Perrett Laver as  Principal in 2008. A seasoned Board level professional, she has chaired a series of large and complex organisations including a Health Authority, a Health Action Zone and an NHS Acute Trust. Her roles have involved liaison with government ministers as well as managing national media in crisis situations. She has been a member of governing bodies and councils in higher education and state sector schools and has sat on several NHS boards. A qualified Barrister and academic by background, Helen has consulted in the public and private sectors as well as with central government. She has extensive knowledge of senior recruitment having chaired and participated in recruitment panels of Chairmen, Chief Executives, Vice-Chancellors, Executive Directors and senior clinicians over many years. She is a qualified mediator and executive coach and has worked with senior executives to improve organisational performance by developing skills and strategic focus.

Helen has lectured internationally and was appointed  honorary Professor of Health Governance and commissioned Deputy Lieutenant of Bedfordshire in 2007 in recognition of her contribution to health and education. In 2009 she was awarded an Honorary Fellowship at the University of Bedfordshire for her work on the merger to create the new university. She was formerly expert consultant and trainer in leadership and governance for the NHS Independent Appointments' Commission. 

Helen is married with three children and enjoys walking, talking, tennis and music. Together with her family, she has been involved in supporting development in a village in Ghana for the past 26 years and, while Chairman of Bedford Hospitals NHS Trust, facilitated a link with Hambantota Hospital, Sri Lanka, following the tsunami. She is a Trustee and supporter of a number of charities.