Stuart Franks (Chairman)
Stuart joined the Board of Trustees in 2021, and took over the role of Chair in 2026. He is a Chartered Fellow (CFIOSH) Health, Safety and Environmental professional currently working for a Government Ministry of Defence contractor. He has over 30 years' experience working in the health and safety industry and has experience across a broad spectrum of UK and international high-risk market units. These include cyber-security and defence, nuclear safety, finance, oil & gas, technology, life sciences, refrigeration, fire & security, and Leisure.
Chris Joyce
Chris is Assistant Director of Placemaking, Property and Sustainability having joined the Royal Borough in April 2019. His service areas include placemaking & regeneration, property & facilities, infrastructure planning & funding, energy, flooding, climate strategy and nature recovery. Prior to joining RBWM he built up over 20 years’ experience in the public and private sector in strategy, planning, infrastructure projects, and stakeholder & community engagement. He has a busy and active life outside of work with four children, two dogs and a flock of chickens.
Nicola Beswick
Nicola is a senior strategist with experience spanning investment banking, commercial advisory,
sports business and the charity sector. She spent more than a decade in investment banking in
London building trusted long-term relationships and supporting commercial growth through risk
management, commercial strategy and consultative problem-solving. Nicola now works in the
Middle East within the global sports and entertainment industry, advising major brands, rights
holders and partners to use sport, music and entertainment to drive business, brand and social
outcomes.
As a Board member of Leisure Focus, Nicola brings a valuable blend of commercial discipline,
financial understanding and passion for the role that community sport and leisure can play in
people’s lives. She is particularly interested in how leisure venues can drive wider impact: improving access to sport and physical activity, supporting healthier communities, creating inclusive local spaces, and building sustainable operating models for the future.